Glutathione has been described as the body’s own master antioxidant.
It is a small protein molecule produced naturally in the liver, and found in all the cells of the human body. It is involved in many important processes, including immune function, tissue building and repair, and in the production of chemicals and proteins.
What are its health benefits?
Glutathione is essential for maintaining intracellular health, and plays an important role in liver function related to removing foreign chemicals from the body, for example, pollutants and medicines. As such, its health benefits are many and varied.
Glutathione supplements may have the following benefits:
- Assisting in the prevention of signs of ageing, due to its antioxidant properties
- Assisting in treatment of diseases that weaken the immune system
- Assisting in the management of metal and drug poisoning
- Assisting in the prevention of anaemia in dialysis patients
Do you have a deficiency?
External and lifestyle factors as well as ageing may result in a glutathione deficiency. Decreased levels can impair cell health, and over time may affect the immune system, resulting in the onset of disease, exacerbate existing conditions and impair response to treatments.
Symptoms of deficiency may include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Lack of energy/feelings of weakness
- Joint pain
- Rashes
- Sleep disorders
- Depression
Find it in these food sources
Glutathione is found in the following foods:
- Asparagus
- Avocados
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Tomatoes
- Strawberries
- Carrots
It is suggested that these foods be consumed raw or steamed. Other foods (those high in glutamine) stimulate the liver to produce glutathione and include:
- Lean meat
- Eggs
- Wheatgerm
- Whey protein
- Wholegrains
Recommended dietary allowance (RDA)
There is no established RDA for glutathione, but generally supplements are not known to have harmful side effects. Nevertheless dosages should always be discussed with your doctor or Clicks pharmacist.
Warnings
Rather avoid its use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Know the overdose risks
Possible side effects could include:
- Long-term use has been associated with lower zinc levels
- When inhaled, asthma patients may experience an asthma attack, characterised by wheezing.
Ensure you discuss dietary supplementation with your Clicks pharmacist to avoid the potential for side effects and adverse interactions with medications.
This medicine has not been evaluated by the Medicines Control Council. This medicine is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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