The body naturally produces glutathione, an antioxidant that is extremely important for general health, vitality, and natural detoxification. Glutathione’s detoxifying properties, in short, “clear out” the free radicals that burden our bodies by causing oxidative stress. This antioxidant establishes homeostasis in our cells and tissues with the amazing things it can do. Glutathione can therefore be a potent anti-aging agent as it offers cellular protection to the entire body. It aids in preventing illness, disease, and even fine lines and wrinkles.
Support smaller than cellular level
Every cell has organelles that help to maintain and operate all of the jobs the cell is responsible for. One organelle, called the mitochondria, is responsible for making energy. In the process of creating this cellular energy, the mitochondria also creates waste products. These waste products include reactive oxygen species, also known as ROS.
ROS are metabolic byproducts of cell metabolism, primarily aerobic respiration, which uses oxygen to turn food into energy. And while necessary, they are chemically reactive molecules to the body. This is where things get confusing: although ROS is a necessary bodily function, it can also be harmful to the body because it is a source of acidity. Antioxidants are necessary to protect the body against ROS. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) have the ability to harm the mitochondria, also known as the “power plants,” and even the DNA within them, resulting in reduced cell efficiency.
The absence of glutathione and other antioxidant can be the cause of excessive ROS levels. In addition to being connected to illnesses like cancer and cardiovascular disease, ROS accelerates aging and contributes to age-related degenerative diseases.
Glutathione and cell death
The natural process of pre-programmed cell death in our bodies is called apoptosis. Apoptosis related cell death can occur more frequently than the body intends for, and this can be due to too low of glutathione antioxidant levels.
Several studies have investigated the relationship between cells that are more susceptible to apoptosis and those that have higher levels of glutathione, which act as a protective factor. Research suggests that increased glutathione may help provide the resistance needed to slow down the aging-related process of cell death.
Apart from reactive oxygen species and programmed cell death, other causes of free radicals that deplete glutathione and cause accelerated aging are environmental factors (like exposure to pollution in the air), lifestyle factors (like exposure to UV radiation), and baseline inflammation in the body. This is why our certified functional medicine practice will address skincare and aging concerns from the inside-out, and include lifestyle recommendations that address theses sources of faster aging.
The overwhelming body of research to this date indicates that when glutathione levels are high, the best anti-aging from the inside out takes place. According to a 2022 study on glutathione and brain function, age-related changes and the onset of certain brain diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s are significantly influenced by harmful free radicals. Our body uses glutathione to neutralize these dangerous molecules and lessen their harmful effects.
A high glutathione level causes cells to become detoxified by binding to and eliminating cellular toxins, heavy metals, and other dangerous substances. As a result of not being overexposed, cells may age more slowly. Additionally, unburdened cells can result in improved immune function. A strong immune system is essential for a slower, healthier, and more energetic aging process.
So how can we make sure our bodies have adequate glutathione to combat the cumulative effects of oxidative stress, and even reverse the aging process by not impairing the health and function of cells and tissues? Naturally, raising glutathione (GSH)!
Where to find glutathione
It takes more work to raise glutathione levels than other vitamins you can simply supplement orally. The body finds it difficult to absorb through the GI tract because it is a relatively large and complex molecule. When ingested, the body’s ability to absorb it through the intestinal lining is inadequate. Furthermore, before being absorbed by the body, the amino acids that form glutathione have the ability to degrade. Glutathione is best absorbed in an IV infusion (IV Therapy) as it is delivered directly into the bloodstream.
The next best way to absorb GSH is via nebulizer or inhalation. Oral absorption is least effective, but some forms can be better than others such as a liposomal formulation. There are some newer transdermal options available for supplementation as well, but may only work to help address direct skin concerns versus a deeper cellular benefit. Many medical skincare lines use glutathione as a powerful ingredient but have to be formulated correctly to protect it.
Beware, however, that even in injectable form, this antioxidant breaks down easily so it’s important that once it’s drawn up for IV therapy from it’s light blocked vial that it is delivered into the body within minutes and does not interact with other IV ingredients. If you find that your infusion clinic or provider is mixing glutathione with other IV ingredients like vitamin C or magnesium or not using light-blocking IV drip bags, you are wasting your time and money.
It’s worth noting that simple dietary and lifestyle factors can improve glutathione levels in the body. Wearing appropriate sun protection when exposed to ultraviolet rays, sleeping adequately and eating certain nutrients can provide adequate glutathione levels for common cellular needs. Sulfurous, cruciferous, and allium vegetables like broccoli, sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, onions and garlic are excellent sources of this antioxidant. However in times of stress, or in situations of known inflammation and illness, clinical sources of glutathione for additional support should be considered.
Looking for natural options for whole-body wellness? Our licensed functional medicine doctor provides preservative-free IV therapy and vitamin injections as well as other wellness treatments.
