There is a lot of buzz about the health benefits of glutathione: I’m here to tell you, it’s AMAZING!

In the body, glutathione is found in high concentrations in most cells (similar to cholesterol, potassium and glucose). It plays a critical role in protecting the cells from oxidative damage (free radicals), detoxifying pesticides and chemicals. It also helps to get rid of heavy metals (particularly mercury) from the brain and liver.

Low levels of glutathione in the body are seen in chronic pesticide and toxin exposure (Gulf War syndrome), in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and ALS; in macular degeneration, cataracts, COPD, and chronic infections. Glutathione depletion is seen in age related decline. People with higher levels of glutathione tend to live longer.

How can we improve our glutathione levels? The first thing is to reduce activities that deplete our glutathione levels. Alcohol consumption, using pesticides and many household cleaners, avoiding certain conventionally grown foods. The “Dirty Dozen” foods put out by the Environmental Working Group (EWG.org) identify fruits and vegetables that have the highest levels of pesticides (apples, cherries, pears…). Certain fragrances are high in phthalates. Instead, eat foods such as asparagus, avocados, spinach, broccoli, and watermelon.

A lot of people take supplements. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a peptide that can increase glutathione levels. Alpha lipoic acid increases mitochondrial glutathione levels and is an excellent antioxidant by itself. Other antioxidants such as vitamin C, zinc, vitamin E can help recycle glutathione.

You can also take glutathione as a supplement or get it administered intravenously. In my sick, chemically sensitive patients (or ones that have a high toxic burden), I often give them intravenous or nebulized (inhaled) glutathione on a regular basis. I recommend it after surgery or long trip by airplane.

Not everyone tolerates glutathione. Some people feel very ill after receiving even low doses of it through an IV. Why, if everyone needs it, is this the case? I suspect this is because of a heavy toxin burden or a genetic polymorphism/mutation that impacts how they recycle the glutathione. For these folks, I recommend using some of the other ways to improve glutathione levels.

On an interesting note, meditation increases glutathione levels too!

So… hopefully, I’ve convinced you about the benefits of glutathione. And as you can see, there are many options to improve your glutathione status and perhaps even improve your quality of life!

Dr. Jennifer Means welcomes you for Primary Care for the whole family: Nutrition, IV Therapy, Naturopathy, and Acupuncture. Contact us at 503-641-6400.