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.
Studies have discovered that most of our supply of this important substance is found in our liver, where it is produced. It aids in the liver's function of purifying the bloodstream of toxins and of metabolic wastes. It is also found in our bloodstream, our lungs, and our intestines. It aids in the digestion of carbohydrates and in breaking down oxidized fats that the body deposits in our tissues in an attempt to keep them out of circulation.
Although all of us need this important nutrient, those who smoke or drink excessive amounts of alcohol will benefit the most. Glutathione appears to protect the lungs from harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke. It also seems to protect liver cells from damage by alcohol.
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.
Levels of this essential substance decrease with age, either because the body produces less of it or because more of it is used in the metabolic process. Researchers have called glutathione the 'master antioxidant', even more valuable than Vitamin C. Studies continue to show how effective it is in maintaining health throughout life.
It comes as a single substance in capsules, and is also available in combination formulas. However, since the compound is not found in food but is produced internally by our own bodies, the value of oral supplements is questioned by some health experts. It may be that supplementation of the three amino acids that are used to produce Glutathione is a better way to get an adequate supply.
The three amino acids that the body uses to produce glutathione are cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. Most of the building blocks of protein are found in food, but they can be destroyed by cooking. Supplements of the nutrients are helpful, but care must be taken to ingest the right amounts. Too much of a good thing can actually be harmful and can cause imbalances in the delicate mechanisms of our metabolism.
Because keeping the right balance of nutrients is important, care should be taken when deciding how and when to supplement glutathione. It is best to proceed with the advice of a trained practitioner or by relying on a formula prepared by a manufacturer which bases its products on clinical testing. There is a lot of information on amino acid therapies, and many sources are peer-reviewed to be reliable. Anyone with health issues that indicate a higher need for this compound should invest the time and energy to learn how to use it to best advantage.
Studies have discovered that most of our supply of this important substance is found in our liver, where it is produced. It aids in the liver's function of purifying the bloodstream of toxins and of metabolic wastes. It is also found in our bloodstream, our lungs, and our intestines. It aids in the digestion of carbohydrates and in breaking down oxidized fats that the body deposits in our tissues in an attempt to keep them out of circulation.
Although all of us need this important nutrient, those who smoke or drink excessive amounts of alcohol will benefit the most. Glutathione appears to protect the lungs from harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke. It also seems to protect liver cells from damage by alcohol.
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.
Levels of this essential substance decrease with age, either because the body produces less of it or because more of it is used in the metabolic process. Researchers have called glutathione the 'master antioxidant', even more valuable than Vitamin C. Studies continue to show how effective it is in maintaining health throughout life.
It comes as a single substance in capsules, and is also available in combination formulas. However, since the compound is not found in food but is produced internally by our own bodies, the value of oral supplements is questioned by some health experts. It may be that supplementation of the three amino acids that are used to produce Glutathione is a better way to get an adequate supply.
The three amino acids that the body uses to produce glutathione are cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. Most of the building blocks of protein are found in food, but they can be destroyed by cooking. Supplements of the nutrients are helpful, but care must be taken to ingest the right amounts. Too much of a good thing can actually be harmful and can cause imbalances in the delicate mechanisms of our metabolism.
Because keeping the right balance of nutrients is important, care should be taken when deciding how and when to supplement glutathione. It is best to proceed with the advice of a trained practitioner or by relying on a formula prepared by a manufacturer which bases its products on clinical testing. There is a lot of information on amino acid therapies, and many sources are peer-reviewed to be reliable. Anyone with health issues that indicate a higher need for this compound should invest the time and energy to learn how to use it to best advantage.