Glutathione

Glutathione is generated in the body and is the most important watersoluble antioxidant. Glutathione recycles the oxidised form of vitamin C throughout the entire antioxidant net work and thus restores its antioxidant powers. Glutathione detoxifies. It will detoxify the body, for example after taking
toxic medication or when the lungs are affected by air pollution.

It is also important for maintaining healthy liver function. The liver contains huge amounts of glutathione to help it complete detoxification. Glutathione strengthens the immune system and plays a part in the accumulation and transport of amino acids (protein building blocks). Higher doses of N-acetyl cysteine can increase glutathione levels.
Glutathione is produced in the cells from three amino acids – cysteine, glutamic acid and glycine – which are all found in food. Fruit, vegetables and fresh meat contain reasonable amounts of glutathione but are partly broken down during the digestive process.

The easiest and best way of maintaining a healthy glutathione level is to eat foods containing glutathione building blocks. Avoid substances that lower the glutathione level, such as cigarette smoke, chemically processed foods (e.g. charcuterie containing nitrites or nitrates), alcohol and a wide range of drugs (mainly painkillers).

Glutathione is found in the body in two forms: in a reduced form as powerful antioxidant, and in an oxidised form after having played its part in the antioxidant net work. In a healthy body more than 90% of the glutathione acts as an antioxidant. The glutathione level drops when we are ill or under stress. The lower the glutathione level, the higher the risk of illness or death. It is important to maintain the correct glutathione level by eating the right foods, in particular during periods of weakness or
stress.