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The Vital Nutritional Compound Glutathione To Health

By Tracy Done


Glutathione is an essential substance for many processes of the human body. It is produced by the liver, using three amino acids as source material. Called the building blocks of protein, amino acids are used in many ways in our metabolic process. Glutathione works as an antioxidant and a detoxifier throughout our bodies, and good health cannot be maintained if this compound is deficient.

Studies have discovered that most of our supply of this important substance is found in our liver, where it is produced. It aids in the liver's function of purifying the bloodstream of toxins and of metabolic wastes. It is also found in our bloodstream, our lungs, and our intestines. It aids in the digestion of carbohydrates and in breaking down oxidized fats that the body deposits in our tissues in an attempt to keep them out of circulation.

An adequate supply of this health protector seems especially important to alcoholics, as it protects liver cells from damage, and to smokers, whose lungs are protected from the effects of tobacco smoke. People suffering from the HIV virus also need plentiful supplies of it to prolong their lives.

A deficiency of this substance is demonstrated most clearly in the nervous system. People lacking in glutathione suffer loss of coordination and balance, develop tremors, and exhibit mental disorders. The effects of aging also are accelerated throughout the body.

Levels of this essential substance decrease with age, either because the body produces less of it or because more of it is used in the metabolic process. Researchers have called glutathione the 'master antioxidant', even more valuable than Vitamin C. Studies continue to show how effective it is in maintaining health throughout life.

It comes as a single substance in capsules, and is also available in combination formulas. However, since the compound is not found in food but is produced internally by our own bodies, the value of oral supplements is questioned by some health experts. It may be that supplementation of the three amino acids that are used to produce Glutathione is a better way to get an adequate supply.

Cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine are the components of the 'master antioxidant'. Although these true amino acids are found in food, they are affected by the heat of cooking and by processing. Supplementing these building blocks might be the best way to insure your body has what it needs to maintain and restore health.

Because keeping the right balance of nutrients is important, care should be taken when deciding how and when to supplement glutathione. It is best to proceed with the advice of a trained practitioner or by relying on a formula prepared by a manufacturer which bases its products on clinical testing. There is a lot of information on amino acid therapies, and many sources are peer-reviewed to be reliable. Anyone with health issues that indicate a higher need for this compound should invest the time and energy to learn how to use it to best advantage.




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