Glutathione
Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in the human body. It’s needed to maintain normal function of the immune system. It also plays a role in protecting the lungs against damage from germs and pollutants. Scientific evidence suggests that people with CF may have low levels of glutathione in their lungs.
It is a powerful antioxidant and detoxifies the harmful compounds in the liver, where it is then excreted through the bile. The liver also excretes glutathione directly into the bloodstream helps maintain the integrity of red blood cells and helps protect white blood cells.
Glutathione is also found in the intestinal tract where it helps metabolize carbohydrate, drugs, and calcium, and helps break down oxidized fats.
Unproven claims include a study of women with ovarian cancer, where those given the glutathione not only had fewer side effects from the chemotherapy but also had better overall survival rates. Because glutathione (like CoQ10) is in every cell, it is believed that it can help everything from cancer to aids to age related health problems. Be careful of hype until more is known.
At this point, the best way to make sure you are getting enough is to eat a balanced diet of lean meat, vegetables, and fruits. It is a chemical that is naturally made by the body. To increase your levels through supplementation, take n-acetylcysteine, or NAC – which is an amino acid that your body uses to make Glutathione.
