Supplements:
- Rho Nutrition: Liposomal Glutathione (endorsed by Gary Brecka)
What is Glutathione and why might you want to consider taking it as a supplement?
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant naturally produced in the body, composed of three amino acids: glutamine, glycine, and cysteine. Often referred to as the “master antioxidant,” it plays a critical role in protecting cells from oxidative stress, detoxifying harmful substances, and supporting overall health. As a supplement, glutathione is gaining attention for its potential to address various health concerns, particularly in the context of aging, chronic conditions, and environmental exposures. Below is a detailed explanation of what glutathione is, its functions, and why you might consider it as a supplement, grounded in scientific understanding as of June 21, 2025.
What Is Glutathione?
1. Definition and Structure: Glutathione is a tripeptide (small protein) synthesized in the liver and found in nearly every cell of the body. Its chemical structure includes:
• Glutamine: Supports immune function and gut health.
• Glycine: Aids in detoxification and protein synthesis.
• Cysteine: Contains a sulfur group critical for antioxidant activity.
It exists in two forms:
• Reduced glutathione (GSH): The active, antioxidant form.
• Oxidized glutathione (GSSG): The inactive form after neutralizing free radicals.
2. Key Functions:
• Antioxidant Defense: Neutralizes free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), preventing cellular damage from oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease.
• Detoxification: Binds to toxins, heavy metals (e.g., mercury, lead), and drugs in the liver, making them water-soluble for excretion via urine or bile.
• Immune System Support: Enhances the function of T-cells and natural killer cells, critical for fighting infections and cancer.
• Cellular Repair: Supports DNA repair, protein synthesis, and enzyme activation, maintaining cellular health.
• Mitochondrial Function: Protects mitochondria (the cell’s energy powerhouses) from damage, improving energy production.
3. Natural Production: The body produces glutathione in the liver, but levels depend on:
• Availability of precursor amino acids (especially cysteine).
• Nutritional status (e.g., sulfur-rich foods like garlic, onions, or cruciferous vegetables).
• Genetics (e.g., variations in GSTM1 or GSTP1 genes affect glutathione production).
• Levels decline with age, stress, poor diet, toxin exposure, and chronic diseases, increasing the risk of oxidative damage.
MGD’s 