Nootropic profile
Glutathione
The body's most abundant endogenous antioxidant and master detoxifier - protects neurons from oxidative damage, supports mitochondrial function, and is depleted by ageing, stress, and environmental toxins.
Best for
Educational only: this is not medical advice. Always check with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
What is Glutathione?
Glutathione (GSH, gamma-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine) is a tripeptide composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine, and is the most abundant intracellular antioxidant in the human body. It is found in every cell, with particularly high concentrations in the liver and brain.
What it does for you
Community and editorial ratings, out of 5:
How to take it
- Liposomal glutathione: 250-1,000 mg per day. Liposomal delivery dramatically improves oral bioavailability by protecting GSH from digestive breakdown
- S-Acetyl Glutathione: 200-600 mg per day. The acetyl group protects against enzymatic degradation and improves cellular uptake
- Reduced glutathione (standard): 500-1,000 mg per day, though standard oral reduced GSH has poor bioavailability
- NAC alternative: N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) at 600-1,800 mg/day is a widely used precursor that raises glutathione levels by providing rate-limiting cysteine
- Timing: Take on an empty stomach or as directed by formulation. Divide larger doses across the day
Watch out for
- Excellent safety profile: Glutathione is an endogenous molecule present in every cell. Supplementation at standard doses is very well tolerated
- Mild GI effects: Some individuals report mild bloating or cramping, especially with standard reduced glutathione. Liposomal forms are generally better tolerated
- Zinc depletion: Long-term high-dose glutathione supplementation may theoretically chelate zinc. Consider monitoring zinc status or supplementing zinc
- Asthma caution: Inhaled glutathione has been reported to worsen bronchospasm in some asthma patients. This applies to nebulised forms, not oral supplements
- Drug interactions: No significant drug interactions at standard oral supplement doses
The science, if you're curious.
- Neutralises reactive oxygen species (superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide) and reactive nitrogen species, protecting neuronal DNA, proteins, and...
- Essential cofactor for glutathione peroxidase enzymes, which convert toxic lipid hydroperoxides and hydrogen peroxide into harmless water and alcohols
- Conjugates with toxins, drugs, and environmental pollutants via glutathione S-transferase (GST) enzymes, facilitating their excretion
- Maintains mitochondrial membrane integrity and electron transport chain function; mitochondrial GSH depletion triggers apoptosis
Where to find it
- Liposomal glutathione: Liquid or capsule formulations using liposomal encapsulation for enhanced bioavailability. The preferred supplemental form
- S-Acetyl Glutathione: Acetylated form available in capsules, more stable than reduced GSH
- Reduced glutathione capsules: Standard GSH capsules, though bioavailability is significantly lower than liposomal or acetylated forms
- Precursor support: NAC, glycine, and whey protein provide glutathione precursors for endogenous synthesis
Frequently asked
The body's most abundant endogenous antioxidant and master detoxifier - protects neurons from oxidative damage, supports mitochondrial function, and is depleted by ageing, stress, and environmental toxins.
The main benefits people report from Glutathione are: Cognitive Enhancement, Energy, Longevity, Memory, Mood, Stress Relief.
Liposomal glutathione: 250-1,000 mg per day. Liposomal delivery dramatically improves oral bioavailability by protecting GSH from digestive breakdownS-Acetyl Glutathione: 200-600 mg per day. The acetyl group protects against enzymatic degradation and improves cellular uptakeReduced glutathione (stan...
Excellent safety profile: Glutathione is an endogenous molecule present in every cell. Supplementation at standard doses is very well toleratedMild GI effects: Some individuals report mild bloating or cramping, especially with standard reduced glutathione. Liposomal forms are generally better tolera...
Neutralises reactive oxygen species (superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide) and reactive nitrogen species, protecting neuronal DNA, proteins, and...Essential cofactor for glutathione peroxidase enzymes, which convert toxic lipid hydroperoxides and hydrogen peroxide into harmless water and...
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