Glutathione

BRIEF OVERVIEW

Glutathione is an antioxidant found in many plants and animals. In our body, it is naturally present in our liver. It is made up of glycine, glutamine and cysteine. Glutathione is very important for our body as it improves insulin level, repairs damaged cells, helps in treating alcoholism, asthma etc. In our body, glutathione levels lower due to stress, old age, environmental factors. A glutathione rich diet does not have any risk but it may cause bloating and allergic reactions for some people.

Glutathione is administered to a patient by mouth to treat glaucoma, cataracts and other eye related illness. It is also used for treating alcoholism, cancer, asthma, fatigue and disorder related to memory loss. Glutathione is also breathed in for treating lung infections and diseases. Glutathione is injected for treating cancer and for treating infertility cases.  In case of cancer, glutathione is administered to a patient while chemotherapy to reduce the side effects associated with it.Our capability to produce glutathione also declines with age. As we grow old, our body gradually loses its ability to produce critical amino acids — the essential proteins we need to manufacture glutathione. Extensive research shows that levels typically begin to wane in your mid-40s. When we reach the age of 60, we see more dramatic declines in glutathione levels.

FOOD INDUSTRY

It is rich in Vitamin C and E, thus taken as food supplement. It is a very good antioxidant. Glutathione also needs a supply of the other nutrients that help do its job effectively: lipoic acid, selenium, zinc, and vitamin B2. Factors that will reduce your glutathione levels include smoking, alcohol, caffeine, strenuous exercise, food additives, prescription and over-the-counter drugs, ultraviolet radiation and air pollution. All of these will deplete glutathione levels in your body.

COSMETICS INDUSTRY

Prevents oxidative damage of skin. Used as whitening agent.