Glutathione
Glutathione - or L-Glutathione - is a powerful antioxidant found within every cell. Glutathione plays a role in nutrient metabolism, and regulation of cellular events (including gene expression, DNA and protein synthesis, cell growth, buffering acids and immune response.
This antioxidant, made from the combination of three amino acids cysteine, glutamate, and glycine, forms part of the powerful natural antioxidant glutathione peroxidase which is found in our cells. Glutathione peroxidase plays a variety of roles in cells, including DNA synthesis and repair, metabolism of toxins/acids and carcinogens, enhancement of the immune system, and prevention of fat oxidation.
However, glutathione is predominantly known as an antioxidant protecting our cells from damage caused by the hydrion ions or acids. Glutathione also helps the other antioxidants in cells stay in their active form. Brain glutathione levels have been found to be lower in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Glutathione is found in foods, particularly fruits like avocado and vegetables. Cyanohydroxybutene, a chemical found in broccoli,cauliflower, brussels sprouts and cabbage, is also thought to increase glutathione levels. Various herbs — for instance cinnamon and cardomom — have compounds that can restore healthy levels of glutathione.
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