Glutathione is a protein composed of three amino acids, glycine, cysteine, and glutamate, produced by cells in our body, and it plays a key role in important biochemical mechanisms. Glutathione is responsible for neutralizing and removing harmful substances in the body using its unique chemical bonds in its structure.

Glutathione is the most important known antioxidant in the body (it cleanses free oxygen radicals produced during energy metabolism).

Active Glutathione (GSH): When glutathione becomes saturated by collecting free radicals, it regenerates itself in the liver. Ideally, only about 10% of glutathione is in an inactive (oxidized) state, while 90% is in its active form. When active glutathione, also known as GSH, drops below 90%, we begin to lose the battle against free radicals. As toxins accumulate further, GSH continues to decrease. When GSH drops below 70%, there is a deterioration in the immune system. Therefore, the balance between reduced glutathione in the body and oxidized glutathione is of utmost importance.

What causes glutathione deficiency?

Synthetic food dyes
Benzopyrenes (cigarette smoke, barbecue smoke, exhaust fumes, etc.)
Excessive alcohol consumption
Household cleaning products (detergents, fabric softeners, room fragrances, naphthalene, cleaning materials, bleaches, etc.)
Kitchenware (non-stick pan coatings, plastic storage containers, inner linings of canned goods and cardboard packaging, etc.)
Formaldehyde and styrene (photocopier and printer toner inks)
Chlorinated water
X-ray radiation
UV radiation
Electromagnetic fields (EMF)
Industrial waste
Inadequate nutrition – deficiency of co-factor vitamins and minerals leads to inadequate glutathione synthesis, and the deficiency of other antioxidants also leads to the expenditure of glutathione.
Excessive exercise – excessive free radical formation in the body leads to the expenditure of glutathione.
Chronic stress
Anxiety
Depression
Exposure to light at night suppresses melatonin release, reducing glutathione synthesis.

Foods and Supplements that Increase Glutathione Levels
⦁ N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
⦁ Selenium
⦁ Magnesium
⦁ Melatonin
⦁ B-complex vitamins
⦁ Zinc
⦁ Alpha-lipoic acid
⦁ Vitamin C
⦁ Physical activity and exercise
⦁ SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine)
Studies have shown that supplementation with glutathione or its precursor molecule, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), may be beneficial in managing certain health problems. Therefore, healthcare professionals can utilize glutathione and its derivatives in managing the following health issues:
⦁ Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
⦁ Side effects of chemotherapy
⦁ Patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment
⦁ Individuals who have undergone bypass surgery
⦁ Diabetes
⦁ Parkinson’s disease
⦁ Anti-aging treatments
⦁ Rheumatoid arthritis
⦁ Infectious diseases
Glutathione and its derivatives can be taken orally, inhaled through the respiratory tract, or administered intravenously to the patient. The dosage of glutathione to be administered may vary depending on the individual’s age and underlying health condition. It is essential for individuals to consult their healthcare provider and take supplementary glutathione under medical supervision for the preservation of their health.
Alpha-lipoic acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant and a compound naturally produced by the body. Alpha-lipoic acid supplementation can be used for the purpose of treating and preventing cancer, diabetes, diabetic neuropathies, HIV/AIDS, and liver diseases.
⦁ It is known for its anti-aging properties.
⦁ Prevents nerve damage in diabetes patients.
⦁ Helps with weight loss by affecting metabolism and suppressing appetite.
⦁ Contains more antioxidants than C and E vitamins.
⦁ Directly enables the regeneration of vitamin C and indirectly the regeneration of vitamin E.
⦁ Reduces the risk of developing cancer by increasing oxygen levels.
⦁ Has significant effects on brain health, slowing down age-related cognitive deficits like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
⦁ Aids in the regeneration of brain cells in stroke patients.
⦁ Preserves the youthfulness of the vascular system by preventing artery blockage.
By regulating insulin resistance with Alpha Lipoic Acid, you can prevent hunger crises and significantly reduce your appetite. This will help you consume fewer calories during the day, contributing to weight loss. It also helps with weight loss due to its significant antioxidant properties. Alpha-lipoic acid can be taken externally with dietary supplements or administered intravenously.