Almonds - healthy, nutritious and helps reduce weight - Fotolia
Glutathione is a peptide made by the liver and involved in many important functions. What is this compound, and how can it be obtained and benefited from? And is it safe?
We emphasize here that this information that we will provide is general and for guidance only, and is not a substitute for consulting a doctor. Do not take glutathione supplements without consulting your doctor, and do not stop any of your treatments. Glutathione is not a cure for any disease.
What is glutathione?
Glutathione is a peptide made up of 3 amino acids: cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. It is found in plants and animals. It is a powerful antioxidant produced by the liver to protect the body from free radicals, peroxides and heavy metals. Glutathione also removes toxins and pollutants from our bodies, according to a report in WebMed .
It is a natural protein made by the liver and participates in many important functions, and one of the most prominent roles it plays is to neutralize free radicals, which are molecules produced in the body that cause damage to cells and have a role in some diseases and aging.
According to Prevention , glutathione levels decline with age.
Glutathione benefits
Glutathione contributes to many benefits, such as:
1- Fighting free radicals
Free radicals are molecules produced in the body that cause damage and play a role in aging, some diseases and infections. Because it is an antioxidant, glutathione fights free radicals.
2- Improve fat burning
As people age, they produce less glutathione. Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine used a combination of animal and human studies to explore the role of glutathione in weight management and insulin resistance in older people.
Indeed, the study results indicated that lower glutathione levels were associated with lower fat burning and higher rates of body fat storage. On the other hand, an increase in the level of glutathione was associated with an increase in fat burning.
3- Helping with coronary endothelial dysfunction
Endothelial cells are responsible for controlling the relaxation and constriction of blood vessels, and the expansion and constriction of arteries affects blood pressure.
One study examined how glutathione might help reduce blood pressure in people with CHD. Participants who received glutathione injections saw an increase in blood vessel diameter and blood flow, which significantly reduces risk factors, WebMed says.
Ways to get glutathione
Food sources that contain sulfur can help increase the body's production of glutathione.
Among these foods:
The meat
Broccoli
Asparagus
Spinach
The Garlic
Almond
We recommend increasing your glutathione with a healthy diet. On the other hand, we do not recommend taking supplements that contain glutathione without consulting a doctor.
Glutathione supplements and others may have side effects and harm that may be serious for some, so it's important to talk to your doctor and dietitian about glutathione to determine if it's right for you.
Tags:
FITNESS