From the Guidelines
Glutathione supplementation may be beneficial in reducing infectious complications and improving outcomes in critically ill patients, particularly those with sepsis or major burns, as evidenced by the latest meta-analyses and randomized trials 1. The benefits of glutathione are numerous, including its role as a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage, supports immune function, and aids in detoxification by binding to toxins for elimination. Glutathione plays a crucial role in cellular repair, helps maintain healthy skin by reducing oxidative stress and hyperpigmentation, and supports liver function by assisting with detoxification processes. Some key points to consider when evaluating the benefits of glutathione include:
- The latest meta-analyses and randomized trials suggest that glutathione supplementation may be beneficial in reducing infectious complications and improving outcomes in critically ill patients, particularly those with sepsis or major burns 1.
- Glutamine, a precursor to glutathione, has been shown to have beneficial effects in major burn injuries, reducing infectious complications and mortality 1.
- Enteral glutamine supplementation has also been shown to improve body composition and quality of life scores in head and neck cancer patients 1.
- However, the clinical significance of glutathione supplementation is not clearly established, and more research is needed to fully understand its benefits and potential risks 1.
- Oral glutathione supplements have limited absorption, and it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially for those with existing health conditions or taking medications.
- The use of glutathione supplementation should be individualized and based on the specific needs and circumstances of each patient, taking into account the latest evidence and guidelines 1.
From the Research
Benefits of Glutathione
- Glutathione plays a crucial role in major physiological processes, including supplying antioxidant defenses and participating in cellular redox reactions in the human body 2.
- It also participates in detoxifying xenobiotics, protecting protein thiols from crosslinking and oxidation, regulating the cell cycle, and storing cysteine 2.
- Glutathione has been shown to enhance metabolic detoxification and regulate the function of the immune system, making it a universal biomarker for improving health and treating age-related disorders 2.
- Oral glutathione supplementation has been found to increase body stores of glutathione in healthy adults, with significant increases in GSH levels in blood, erythrocytes, plasma, lymphocytes, and buccal cells 3.
- Glutathione supplementation has also been shown to reduce oxidative stress and increase natural killer cytotoxicity, indicating its potential benefits for immune function 3.
Antioxidant Activity of Glutathione
- Glutathione has antioxidant properties, which help to counter oxidative stress and protect cells from damage 4, 5.
- Dietary supplementation with glutathione precursors has been found to increase endogenous levels of vitamins C, E, and A, and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation 4.
- Glutathione works in conjunction with other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, to provide additive effects on exercise performance and oxidative stress levels 6.
Potential Health Benefits
- Glutathione may have potential health benefits, including reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, improving immune function, and protecting against age-related disorders 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of glutathione supplementation on human health and to explore its potential therapeutic applications 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.