The Efficacy And Role Of Glutathione

Glutathione is an antioxidant that exists in the human body itself, which can reduce the damage caused by oxidative stress. It is mainly composed of three amino acids: glutamine, cysteine and glutamic acid.

The efficacy and role of glutathione:

1. Antioxidant activity

Free radicals may contribute to aging and certain diseases. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and protect the body from their damaging effects. Glutathione is a very strong antioxidant, in part because it is found in high concentrations in every cell in the body.

2. Prevent cancer progression

Some studies suggest that glutathione has a role in preventing cancer progression. But the role and efficacy of glutathione for injection, the same study suggested that glutathione may make tumors less sensitive to chemotherapy, a common cancer treatment. Determining the effect of glutathione on cancer will require more research.

3. Reduce cell damage in liver disease

Hepatitis, alcohol abuse, and fatty liver damage all damage liver cells. A small clinical trial in 2017 concluded that glutathione could help treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease due to its antioxidant properties and detoxification potential. The researchers note that further studies are needed to confirm this effect.

4. Improve insulin sensitivity

Insulin resistance can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes. The production of insulin causes the body to move glucose (sugar) from the blood into cells, where it is used for energy. A small 2018 study showed that people with insulin resistance tend to have lower glutathione levels, especially if they experience complications such as neuropathy or retinopathy. A 2013 study came to a similar conclusion.

5. Relieves Parkinson's Symptoms

According to some studies, there is evidence that maintaining glutathione levels may help relieve symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The findings appear to support injectable glutathione as a potential therapy, but there is little evidence for oral supplements. Further research is necessary to support its use.

6. Reduce ulcerative colitis damage

Like other inflammatory diseases, ulcerative colitis is also associated with oxidative damage and stress. A 2003 animal study showed that glutathione supplementation improved some damage to the colon in rats. Determining the role of glutathione in ulcerative colitis will require more research in humans.

7. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder

There is evidence for the role and efficacy of injectable glutathione, and children with autism have lower levels of glutathione than children with neurotypes or children without autism. In a 2011 study on the role and efficacy of injectable glutathione, researchers found that oral glutathione supplements or injections may reduce some of the effects of autism. However, the research team did not specifically look at whether symptoms improved in children, so further research is needed to determine this effect.