318 How to Raise Glutathione [11 May 2015]

I have previously written about glutathione (#304), explaining why it is the most important antioxidant in your body. A few weeks ago (#315) I promised to show you how to raise your glutathione levels.

To review: glutathione is composed of three amino acids – L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid and glycine, and the mineral selenium. Cysteine is a sulfur-containing amino acid. Simply taking glutathione supplements does not raise glutathione levels – it is broken down in digestion; we have to consume the precursors and let our bodies synthesize it where needed.

Of the three amino acids, cysteine is the hardest to get from our diet. Free cysteine, like glutathione, is broken down in digestion. Two special forms do survive the digestive process: N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) and bonded cysteine (also called cystine). NAC is available as a supplement and in higher doses as a prescription drug. It is commonly used in clinical situations but has some side effects and safety concerns, so is not recommended for general use or for children. Cystine is found in whey from raw cow’s milk, processed in a special way to avoid breaking the sulfur bonds. Regular whey supplements will not contain any cystine.

Other factors required to increase glutathione include:
• Selenium – a co-factor for the enzyme glutathione peroxidase
• Vitamins B1 & B2 – help maintain glutathione in its active form
• Vitamins B6 & B12 – play a role in glutathione synthesis
• Folic acid – directs cysteine into production of glutathione rather than homocysteine (a risk factor for heart disease)
• Vitamin C – supports glutathione production and activity
• Vitamin D3 – increases glutathione production
• Vitamin E – protects and recharges glutathione
• Minerals magnesium and zinc – also essential for glutathione production
• Silymarin from the herb milk thistle – has been shown to increase glutathione

Source: Immune Health Solutions website. Be sure to scroll down and watch the Dr. Mark Hyman video clip.

For more information on this or other natural health topics, stop in and talk to Stan; for medical advice consult your licensed health practitioner.