The Vital Nutritional Compound Glutathione To Your Health

By Tracy Done


Glutathione is an essential substance for many processes of the human body. It is produced by the liver, using three amino acids as source material. Called the building blocks of protein, amino acids are used in many ways in our metabolic process. Glutathione works as an antioxidant and a detoxifier throughout our bodies, and good health cannot be maintained if this compound is deficient.

This compound is involved in many metabolic processes in our bodies. Research has shown that it is present mainly in the liver but is also found in the lungs, the bloodstream, and the intestines. It is beneficial for metabolism and is believed to protect white and red blood cells, and helps break down oxidized fats which act as harmful free radicals. Free radicals are believed to accelerate the effects of aging and to contribute to many illnesses and chronic conditions.

Glutathione works as an antioxidant to combat the harmful free radicals that come from the foods we eat, pollution in the air we breathe, and toxins found in water and the environment. People who smoke, drink alcohol to excess, or are HIV positive especially seem to benefit from high levels of this compound throughout their systems. It appears to protect the lungs from byproducts of tobacco smoke, shield liver cells from damage from alcohol, and combat some of the effects of the AIDS virus.

Its importance to the nervous system is demonstrated by the reaction of those deficient in this nutrient. People with a deficiency exhibit lack of coordination, mental disorders, tremors, and loss of balance. People suffering from HIV are especially affected by a lack of this antioxidant.

As with many other important chemicals in the body, the levels of glutathione decrease with age. It may be that less is produced by the liver or that more is used to combat the effects of aging. Its action in protecting the mind and the body makes some health practitioners call glutathione the 'master antioxidant.' As research into the intricate workings of our metabolism proceed, more and more is learned about the activities of this and other vital chemicals.

This nutrient is sold in capsule form. It can also be found in amino acid formulas and liquid proteins. However, since it is not ingested in food but rather produced by the body, some health advisers feel that oral supplementation may not be effective. The studies that will answer this question have not been completed. Many experts advocate instead the supplementation of the three amino acids that are used in the production of the compound.

These true amino acids are also easily found. They are present in our food supply, but are easily destroyed by cooking and processing. Supplementation may be the best way to get extra glutathione, but care must be taken to ensure that everything remains in balance. Reputable manufacturers whose products are based on scientific research will have a formula which should give you the right amounts of each nutrient. It is possible to find the actual reports of research if you want to make your own evaluation.

Glutathione is necessary for life and health. However, it should not be taken without the advice of a trained practitioner or without comprehensive study of the role of amino acids in our bodies. There are special forms of these important nutrients that have been clinically tested and found to be superior. There is a lot of information on this subject; just be sure it comes from a reputable source.




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