Why Glutathione
As a powerful detoxifier, glutathione is vital to protecting cell function and promoting overall wellness. Active in every part of the body, GSH seeks out and disarms the free radicals generated by inflammation, pesticides, pollutants, heavy metals and more. If left unchecked, free radicals can attack and damage cellular DNA and proteins. This process is called oxidative stress and it is linked to a variety of health issues, from general fatigue to cancers and autoimmune conditions. The good news is that research shows increasing glutathione lowers oxidative stress, reduces symptoms, increases efficacy of treatments like medications, and improves conditions like psoriasis, colorectal cancer, and Parkinson’s.Why Use a Glutathione Supplement
Our bodies generate glutathione using amino acids we get from food. However, our ability to do this declines as we age. In addition, our GSH stores can be quickly depleted by illness, injury, or just the sheer level of toxins we encounter every day in our modern lives.Types of Glutathione Supplements
Generally, glutathione supplements are found as oral, IV, and transdermal formulations.- Oral supplements are one of the most popular ways to supplement, but unfortunately, the process of digestion often breaks the GSH molecule apart before it can be utilized by the body.
- Intravenous infusions are often considered an effective means to deliver extra nutrients and medications quickly and directly into the bloodstream, where the body can use them immediately. Glutathione IVs bypass the digestive system and allow the whole GSH molecule to travel into the body. However, it’s unclear how long the body can use GSH this way (perhaps as little as 30 minutes). Additionally, GSH IVs are not yet FDA approved. In order to get this treatment safely, you need to make sure you go to a reputable facility with medical staff present for infusions.
- The safest and most reliable way to supplement glutathione is with a transdermal spray, cream, or lotion. These are easy to apply at home or on the go and can be combined with other ingredients to create a more holistic product. However, due to the size of the GSH molecule, it’s important that the product you use is a reduced form of GSH (sub-nanotechnology) that can pass through the skin’s barrier.
