One thing I greatly appreciate about the United States is its healthcare system. Personal liberty is highly valued there, much more than in many countries where the government plays a stronger role in determining what individuals can or cannot do regarding their healthcare. In the United States, for example, I can obtain MRI or CT scans for early cancer detection, order various blood tests, consult specialists, and access certain medications without first needing to see a family physician for a referral. This gives individuals more direct control over their own health decisions.
Among all the supplements I use, glutathione is my favorite. In my view it is one of the most remarkable substances produced by the body. Glutathione is the most powerful antioxidant our body naturally makes. It neutralizes free radicals and helps reduce oxidative stress, which is associated with cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disorders and cancer. It also supports liver detoxification by binding to toxins and heavy metals and helping remove them from the body. Considering that many modern foods unfortunately contain trace amounts of heavy metals or environmental toxins, this detoxification role is very important.
Glutathione also plays an essential role in supporting the immune system by regulating T-cells and natural killer cells. It protects mitochondria, which are the energy-producing structures of our cells, helping reduce fatigue and support energy production. Because it protects DNA from oxidative damage, glutathione is also associated with anti-aging effects and slower biological aging. It helps protect brain cells and has been studied in relation to neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. It can support healthy skin, assist in reversing certain forms of liver damage such as fatty liver or alcohol-related stress and improve insulin sensitivity while reducing chronic inflammation, which is a major contributor to many chronic diseases.
There are also natural ways to help the body produce more glutathione. Getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly and eating foods rich in the building blocks of glutathione can help. Examples include dairy products, Brazil nuts, organ meats and many vegetables.
Taking regular glutathione supplements orally does not always work well because glutathione is often broken down in the digestive system before it can be absorbed. However, liposomal glutathione usually around 500 mg per day can be better absorbed and may increase levels more effectively.
Another supplement that helps the body produce more glutathione is NAC (N-acetyl cysteine). NAC provides cysteine, which is the key amino acid needed for glutathione production. Taking around 600–1800 mg per day can increase the body’s glutathione levels significantly. Glycine supplements can also support glutathione synthesis because glycine is another amino acid required to form this molecule.
In the United States, injectable glutathione is available in some clinics and wellness settings and typically costs around $100 per month. A common approach is a small subcutaneous injection of about 0.5 ml to 1 ml once or twice per week in the abdominal area.
Many people describe a noticeable feeling of clarity and well-being after glutathione injections. For some, it reduces brain fog and creates a sense of mental clarity and calm energy. The feeling is often described as clean and balanced energy rather than the stimulation associated with caffeine.
I am currently in Canada and unfortunately did not bring injectable glutathione with me. I miss the effects quite a bit. It is possible to obtain it in Canada, but usually it requires a physician’s prescription through a compounding pharmacy or receiving it as an IV treatment in a naturopathic clinic. For now I am taking liposomal glutathione along with NAC and glycine. These supplements gradually help the body increase its own glutathione production, but the effects develop more slowly compared to injections.
Glutathione is generally considered safe and does not have major side effects for most people. However, very high or long-term use may lower certain trace minerals such as zinc and copper, so maintaining adequate intake of these minerals is important. In some individuals glutathione can also lighten the skin because it affects melanin production, which is why it is sometimes used in medical aesthetic clinics for skin-brightening treatments.
Dr Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
President
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)