GLUTATHIONE
The Bodies Master Antioxidant
The Bodies Master Antioxidant
Even if you feel fine, less than normal level of Glutathione may be causing your internal
organs to under-perform and eventually malfunction. By the time the symptoms appear,
some irreparable damage may have been done.
The golden proverb "Prevention is better than cure" certainly holds true.
- How can I Boost Glutathione level in my body ?
- Since 1993, there is an effective way. Instead of taking Glutathione, one can take the precursor (building
block) of Glutathione, namely BONDED CYSTEINE.
- When taken orally, it is not digested in the stomach, this means that it is NOT destroyed like pills.
- The bonded cysteine is absorbed through the intestine into blood and transported to individual cells.
- Here, cysteine is released and enzymatically combined with 2 other amino acids; glutamate and glycine to
form useful cellular Glutathione.
- This method has been clinically proven to effectively boost Glutathione level in the body. Medical
researchers have known the benefits of high Glutathione levels for about 119 years.
- Taking Glutathione orally is of minimal use. When taken orally, almost all is broken up in the stomach and
hence destroyed. Pills will not boost the Glutathione level in your body.
- Injecting Glutathione into the bloodstream helps certain critically ill patients but is not relevant to the
normal person.
- Glutathione benefits are far ranging for the human body and can include:
- improved energy
- reducing the effects of inflammation common with aging
- improved sleep
- improved mental focus
- improved recovery from physical activity
- support for the immune system
- cellular detoxification
- disease protection
- liver support
- circulatory support
- digestive support
- respiratiory support
- brain support
- Disease Protection!
Since glutathione is found in all cells and is your master antioxidant, it plays a significant
role in helping the body stay well and protecting it from diseases like:
- Cataracts – According to the April 2000 Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics “The
reducing compound glutathione (GSH) exists in an unusually high concentration in the lens
where it functions as an essential antioxidant vital for maintenance of the tissue’s
transparency.” Sunlight and UV radiation is a very potent oxidizing agent. To protect the
cornea, lens and retina of the eye, glutathione is directly utilized by the lens of the eye to
offset the potential free radical damage of sunlight. Glutathione benefits the eye to help
prevent cataracts from forming.
- Brain and Nervous System Disorders – According to Dr. Gutman M.D., “The brain is particularly
susceptible to free radial attack because it generates more oxidative-by-products per gram
of tissue than any other organ. The brain’s main antioxidant is glutathione – it’s importance
cannot be overstated.” The number of brain and nervous system disorders that has been
linked to oxidative stress includes:
- Brain injury and trauma
- Stroke
- Ischemia
- Toxicity of lead and mercury
- Parkinson’s disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Lou Gehrig’s disease
- Down syndrome
- Sleep deprivation
Again, according to Dr. Gutman M.D., “Many neurological and psychiatric disease processes are
characterized by high levels of oxidative stress and free radical formation, as well as abnormalities in
glutathione metabolism and antioxidant defenses.” Unfortunately, many antidepressants and other
medications deplete the body and brain of glutathione to reduce glutathione benefits. There are numerous
studies which show that increasing this important molecule in the body has been extremely helpful in
treating brain and nervous system disorders.
- Liver Disease – According to Dr. Parris Kidd of Thorne Inc. in a 22 page overview of glutathione
benefits published in the 1997 edition of Alternative Medicine Review, “GSH
(glutathione) depletion has been suggested to represent an important contributory factor
to liver injury. . .” One of the main functions of the liver is to filter out toxins and convert
them to water-soluble compounds that your body can eliminate through bile and urine.
There are two detoxification pathways in the liver and both heavily depend on
glutathione. If glutathione is deficient in either or both of these detoxification pathways
then these toxins can have extremely detrimental affects on your liver.
- Lung Disease – Your lungs are directly in the path of airborne contaminants such as cigarette smoke,
atmospheric pollutants and other environmental toxins that can be inhaled. It is
important to note that glutathione is present in the epithelial lining of the lower
respiratory tract. Glutathione deficiencies have been documented in several lung
diseases such as acute respiratory distress syndrome, asthma, chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis!
- Immune System Disorders – The growth and differentiation of immune cells is dependent on
glutathione. In numerous experimental studies, when glutathione is purposely depleted
there is a marked reduction in immune cell function. This, combined with other important
findings, clearly shows that intracellular levels of glutathione play a central role in the
functioning of immune cells. Two examples of immune system disorders that seem to
have a correlation with low glutathione levels are lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Cardiovascular System Disorders - The endothelial cells that line the blood vessels are critical to the
proper function of your cardiovascular system. They are involved in the production of
nitric oxide which helps to regulate blood flow and blood pressure. These endothelial
cells are extremely vulnerable to oxidative stresses. Atherosclerosis seems to be linked
to oxidative damage to the endothelial cells especially when glutathione levels are low.
This damage is even more prevalent in diabetics who typically have lower glutathione
levels.
- Sickle Cell Anemia – Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder in which the lifespan of the red blood cell
is markedly decreased from an average of 120 days to 17 days. Although the research in
this area is small, there does seem to be a relationship between lower levels of
glutathione and increased susceptibility of the red blood cell to change from oval to sickle.
Oxidative stresses seem to trigger this shape change which can be life-threatening for the
individual with sickle cell anemia.
- Aging– Although not considered to be a disease, aging does have its challenges. Numerous studies
have shown that glutathione levels decrease with age. This allows for greater oxidative stress
and free radical damage to occur. It has been documented that higher levels of glutathione
concentrations are associated with good health. People with chronic diseases had lower mean
glutathione concentrations than those that were disease free.
- Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide (3 amino acids bonded together) known as
L- GlutamylCysteinylGlycine made by our body cells for protection and survival.
- In medicine, GSH is well known and well accepted as the most important natural health factor in the
body. It exists IN EVERY LIVING CELL of EVERY LIVING IN THE SKY / LAND /
WATERS IN THIS WONDERFUL EARTH!!!
- It is made up of 3 amino acids :
1. Cysteine - The limiting factor in the manufacturing of intracellular GSH
2. Glycine - Promotes metabolism
3. Glutamate - Component of brain cells
- Glycine and Glutamate are easily available from our food but Cysteine is relatively rare and as it is easily
denatured by heating/cooking (begins to denature at 42ºC; totally denatured by 55ºC), it is difficult
to obtain sufficient amounts of it from our daily meals.
- Your body uses glutathione to protect your cells from free radical damage, to eliminate toxins, to support
energy production, and to help enhance immune system functions. That’s the good news.
- Researches show that our Glutathione level in the body drops with age.
- Some people with genetic predisposition have their Glutathione levels drop earlier in life. Various
diseases begin to strike them at a relatively young age. This is partly due to faster than normal cellular
deterioration and partly due to weaker and/or incorrect immunity responses. Adequate Glutathione is
essential for the proper functioning of the Immune system.
- Why the Decrease?
There are several factors for the decrease in glutathione levels with age. Stress is a factor. As
stress goes up from work, relationships and the pressures of life, it takes a toll on your body’s
health. Greater levels of glutathione are needed to offset the increased free radical production
caused by these stress factors. Add to this a diet of convenience foods which include many
artificial ingredients, colorings and preservatives. All of these challenge your liver to increase its
need for glutathione to offset the added toxins. Additionally, convenience foods don’t contain the
necessary nutrients needed to help create and maintain your glutathione benefits.
To compound the problem, your body’s ability to absorb nutrients decreases with age. At the
same time your body’s exposure to environmental toxins begins effect your overall health. All of
these factors play a role in decreasing your glutathione levels unless you take steps to offset this
process.
- All illnesses and diseases are biochemical in nature.
HUGE RESEARCH SHOWS
MANY ILLNESSES HAVE A COMMON FACTOR: LOW GLUTATHIONE LEVELS IN THE BODY
A Prolonged DEFICIENCY in Glutathione = ILLNESS & / OR AGING.
- There are 9 Main Functions of Glutathione:
1. Antioxidant
2. Immunity booster
3. Detoxifier
4. Suppressor of Inflammation
5. Transporter of amino acids
6. Regulator of bodily response to injury
7. Enzymes activator
8. Strengthens synthesis and repair of DNA
9. Steers direction of synthesis of proteins
A I D S T R E S S - Remember this acronym for the functions of Glutathione.
L- GlutamylCysteinylGlycine made by our body cells for protection and survival.
- In medicine, GSH is well known and well accepted as the most important natural health factor in the
body. It exists IN EVERY LIVING CELL of EVERY LIVING IN THE SKY / LAND /
WATERS IN THIS WONDERFUL EARTH!!!
- It is made up of 3 amino acids :
1. Cysteine - The limiting factor in the manufacturing of intracellular GSH
2. Glycine - Promotes metabolism
3. Glutamate - Component of brain cells
- Glycine and Glutamate are easily available from our food but Cysteine is relatively rare and as it is easily
denatured by heating/cooking (begins to denature at 42ºC; totally denatured by 55ºC), it is difficult
to obtain sufficient amounts of it from our daily meals.
- Your body uses glutathione to protect your cells from free radical damage, to eliminate toxins, to support
energy production, and to help enhance immune system functions. That’s the good news.
- Researches show that our Glutathione level in the body drops with age.
- Some people with genetic predisposition have their Glutathione levels drop earlier in life. Various
diseases begin to strike them at a relatively young age. This is partly due to faster than normal cellular
deterioration and partly due to weaker and/or incorrect immunity responses. Adequate Glutathione is
essential for the proper functioning of the Immune system.
- Why the Decrease?
There are several factors for the decrease in glutathione levels with age. Stress is a factor. As
stress goes up from work, relationships and the pressures of life, it takes a toll on your body’s
health. Greater levels of glutathione are needed to offset the increased free radical production
caused by these stress factors. Add to this a diet of convenience foods which include many
artificial ingredients, colorings and preservatives. All of these challenge your liver to increase its
need for glutathione to offset the added toxins. Additionally, convenience foods don’t contain the
necessary nutrients needed to help create and maintain your glutathione benefits.
To compound the problem, your body’s ability to absorb nutrients decreases with age. At the
same time your body’s exposure to environmental toxins begins effect your overall health. All of
these factors play a role in decreasing your glutathione levels unless you take steps to offset this
process.
- All illnesses and diseases are biochemical in nature.
HUGE RESEARCH SHOWS
MANY ILLNESSES HAVE A COMMON FACTOR: LOW GLUTATHIONE LEVELS IN THE BODY
A Prolonged DEFICIENCY in Glutathione = ILLNESS & / OR AGING.
- There are 9 Main Functions of Glutathione:
1. Antioxidant
2. Immunity booster
3. Detoxifier
4. Suppressor of Inflammation
5. Transporter of amino acids
6. Regulator of bodily response to injury
7. Enzymes activator
8. Strengthens synthesis and repair of DNA
9. Steers direction of synthesis of proteins
A I D S T R E S S - Remember this acronym for the functions of Glutathione.
| Benefits of adaquate Glutathione in the Body Cells Here is a list of conditions and diseases that benefit from HIGH cellular levels of Glutathione : Ageing Alzheimer's Disease (AD) Balding and Hair Loss Cancers of ageing e.g. Prostate Cancer Cataract Macular Degeneration (MD) Osteoarthritis Parkinson's Disease (PD) Age-related Decline in Immunity Brain and Nervous Conditions Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Bipolar Disorders Depression Down's Syndrome Schizophrenia Seizure (Epilepsy) Cardiovascular Conditions Atherosclerosis Brain Stroke Cardiovascular Disease Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) Hypertension Reperfusion Injury Cancers Cancer Prevention Cancer Treatment Reducing side-effects of Chemotherapy (Chemoprotection) Reducing side-effects of Radiotherapy (Radioprotection) Prevent Wasting Disease (Cachexia) Lung Cancer Breast Cancer Infectious Diseases and Immunology Conditions Viral Diseases Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Flu or Influenza Herpes Hepatitis Bacterial Infections Sepsis Autoimmune Dysfunctions Diabetes II Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) Pulmonary Conditions Asthma Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Emphysema Pulmonary Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis Digestive System Diabetes I Gastritis and Peptic Ulcers Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) Inflammatory Bowel Diseases - Ulcerative colitis Inflammatory Bowel Diseases - Crohn's Disease (CD) Malnutrition Pancreatitis Reflux Oesophagitis Liver & Gallbladder Alcoholic Liver Disease Gallstones Reproductive System Female Gestational Diabetes Gestational Hypertension Pre-eclampsia Male Sperm Disorders (Dyspermia) Skin Disorders Acne Vulgaris Allergic Contact Dermatitis Behchet's Disease Psoriasis Lupus or Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Sunburn Eyes, Ear, Nose & Throat Problems Eales' Disease Glaucoma Sinusitis Ear Infection or Otitis Noise-induced Hearing loss Periodontal Disease or Gum Disease Kidneys Polycystic Kidney Diseases Complications of Dialysis Metabolism Increases HDL (Good) Cholesterol Decreases Oxidation of LDL (Lipid Peroxidation) Inflammation DNA Damage and Repair Diabetes Complications Diabetic Neuropathy Diabetic Nephropathy Diabetic Retinopathy Detoxification Detoxifies certain Drugs Detoxifies substances in Cigarette Smoke Detoxifies pollutants including Heavy metals Detoxifies many well-known Carcinogens Trauma & Burns (Healing & Recovery) Decreases recovery time from Burns Decreases recovery time from Wounds Cold Stress Strenuous Exercise & Athletic Performance Enhances athletic performance Credibility You can find publishings in pubmed concerning research in the above areas... (PubMed = Medical Publications) The website "PubMed" is in the United States, hosted by the USA government. The PubMed website address is :- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/fcgi |
- Steps to increase or maintain Glutathione levels...
- The evidence is clear that glutathione levels are important for cellular health and clearly aid the liver in
detoxification. What is not so clear is how to help your body maintain and/or increase your glutathione
benefits. Because of the growing popularity of this nutrient, especially as it applies to slowing down the
aging process, there have been numerous glutathione supplements appearing in the marketplace.
- It is important to note that most glutathione supplements do not appear to increase glutathione levels.
This is because as a tri-peptide it is not well absorb by your body. In the digestive system it is usually
broken down into its amino acids. Additionally, most cells in the body cannot directly absorb glutathione
because of its size and shape. Most cells absorb the component parts and then synthesize glutathione
inside the cell.
The essential amino acid L-methionine seems to have a positive effect on increasing glutathione benefits
in the body. This is because your body can convert this amino acid into cysteine which is a necessary
component for the formation of glutathione. It seems that L-cysteine is the precursor that most limits the
body’s ability to synthesize glutathione.
WARNING: Stay away from supplements that promote L-cysteine. By itself, cysteine is easily oxidized into
toxic products that can negatively affect your brain, retina, and other areas of the body.
- A safe alternative to L-cysteine is N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) which is a precursor for cysteine. It is well
absorbed by the intestine. It does not raise glutathione levels if they are already within a normal range. But
it will help to raise abnormally low glutathione levels to bring them back to normal. NAC has been widely
used in Europe because it has anti-mutagenic and anti-carcinogenic properties in addition to being a
powerful antioxidant. NAC however is a drug and has side effects so cannot be taken for a long term.
- Because the majority of the body’s glutathione is made in the liver from its essential amino acid building
blocks, a complete dietary protein or amino acid source is important.
- One such clinically proven amino acid source is called IMMUNACOL produced by Immunotec. This
is a bioactive whey protein and bonded cystine dietary supplement derived from lactose free organic milk.
Research seems to indicate that glutathione benefits can be achieved from this product.
- The evidence is clear that glutathione levels are important for cellular health and clearly aid the liver in
detoxification. What is not so clear is how to help your body maintain and/or increase your glutathione
benefits. Because of the growing popularity of this nutrient, especially as it applies to slowing down the
aging process, there have been numerous glutathione supplements appearing in the marketplace.
- It is important to note that most glutathione supplements do not appear to increase glutathione levels.
This is because as a tri-peptide it is not well absorb by your body. In the digestive system it is usually
broken down into its amino acids. Additionally, most cells in the body cannot directly absorb glutathione
because of its size and shape. Most cells absorb the component parts and then synthesize glutathione
inside the cell.
The essential amino acid L-methionine seems to have a positive effect on increasing glutathione benefits
in the body. This is because your body can convert this amino acid into cysteine which is a necessary
component for the formation of glutathione. It seems that L-cysteine is the precursor that most limits the
body’s ability to synthesize glutathione.
WARNING: Stay away from supplements that promote L-cysteine. By itself, cysteine is easily oxidized into
toxic products that can negatively affect your brain, retina, and other areas of the body.
- A safe alternative to L-cysteine is N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) which is a precursor for cysteine. It is well
absorbed by the intestine. It does not raise glutathione levels if they are already within a normal range. But
it will help to raise abnormally low glutathione levels to bring them back to normal. NAC has been widely
used in Europe because it has anti-mutagenic and anti-carcinogenic properties in addition to being a
powerful antioxidant. NAC however is a drug and has side effects so cannot be taken for a long term.
- Because the majority of the body’s glutathione is made in the liver from its essential amino acid building
blocks, a complete dietary protein or amino acid source is important.
- One such clinically proven amino acid source is called IMMUNACOL produced by Immunotec. This
is a bioactive whey protein and bonded cystine dietary supplement derived from lactose free organic milk.
Research seems to indicate that glutathione benefits can be achieved from this product.
IMMUNOTEC
- As listed in the Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS)
- The only Natural Food Product that is listed in the pharmaceudical compendium which is the Dr's drug bible!!!
Immunocal®
Protein isolate
Glutathione Precursor
Immunotec
- Pharmacology IMMUNOCAL is a natural source of the glutathione precursor cysteine for the maintenance of a strong
immune system. It is fat-free and contains less then 1% lactose and has a high protein biological value (>110 BV) providing
all essential amino acids.
- The systemic availability of oral glutathione is negligible; the vast majority of it must be manufactured intracellularly from
precursors. Glutathione is a tripeptide made intracellularly from its constituent amino acids L-glutamate, L-cysteine and
glycine. The sulfhydryl (thiol) group (SH) of cysteine serves as a proton donor and is responsible for the biological activity
of glutathione. Provision of this amino acid is the rate-limiting factor in glutathione synthesis by the cells since bioavailable
cysteine is relatively rare in foodstuffs. Furthermore, cysteine if ingested as the free amino acid L-cysteine, has toxic
potential and is spontaneously catabolized in the gastrointestinal tract and blood plasma. Toxicity is avoided when cysteine
is integrated into larger proteins such as serum albumin, alpha lactalbumin and lactoferrin.
- IMMUNOCAL is a bovine whey protein isolate specially prepared to provide a rich source of bioavailable cysteine.
Following digestion, the cysteine remains as the stable form cystine (2 molecules of cysteine linked by a disulfide bond) and
glutamylcystine. After absorption, these dipeptides travel safely in the blood stream and readily enter the cells to release
free cysteine for intracellular glutathione synthesis. IMMUNOCAL is a cysteine delivery system.
The disulphide bond in cystine is pepsin and trypsin resistant but may be split by heat, low pH or mechanical stress,
releasing free cysteine. When subject to heat or shearing forces (inherent in most extraction processes), the fragile disulfide
bonds within the peptides are broken and the bioavailability of cysteine is greatly diminished.
- Glutathione has multiple functions:
1. It is the major endogenous antioxidant produced by the cells, participating directly in the neutralization of free radicals
and reactive oxygen compounds, as well as the maintenance of exogenous antioxidants such as vitamins C and E in their
reduced (active) forms.
2. Through direct conjugation, it detoxifies many xenobiotics (foreign compounds) and carcinogens, both organic and
inorganic such as heavy metals, aromatic hydrocarbons, nitrosamines, benzopirines and others including pharmacological
agents such as acetaminophen.
3. It is essential for the immune system to exert its full potential, e.g. (1) modulating antigen presentation to lymphocytes,
thereby influencing cytokine production and the type of response (cellular or humoral) that develops, (2) enhancing
proliferation of lymphocytes thereby increasing magnitude of response, (3) enhancing killing activity of cytotoxic T cells and
NK cells, and (4) regulating apoptosis, thereby maintaining control of the immune response.
4. It plays a fundamental role in numerous metabolic and biochemical reactions such as DNA synthesis and repair, protein
synthesis, prostaglandin synthesis, amino acid transport and enzyme activation. Many systems in the body are adversely
affected by low glutathione levels, including the immune system, the nervous system, the gastrointestinal system and the
cardiovascular-pulmonary system.
- Indications Glutathione augmentation is a strategy developed to address states of glutathione deficiency, high oxidative
stress, immune deficiency, and xenobiotic overload in which glutathione plays a part in the detoxification of the xenobiotic
in question. Many clinical pathologies are associated with glutathione deficiency and oxidative stress and are elaborated
upon in numerous medical references. Low glutathione is also strongly implicated in wasting and negative nitrogen balance
seen in muscle wasting.
- Contraindications In individuals who develop or have known hypersensitivity to specific milk proteins (this does not
include lactose intolerance).
- Warnings Patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy should discuss the use of this product with their health care
practitioner.
- Heating or adding IMMUNOCAL to a hot liquid or use of a high-speed blender to reconstitute it will significantly decrease
the effectiveness of the product.
- Precautions: Each pouch of IMMUNOCAL provides 9 g of protein. Patients on a protein-restricted diet need to take this into
account when calculating their daily protein load.
Although a bovine milk derivative, IMMUNOCAL is well tolerated by lactose-intolerant individuals.
IMMUNOCAL is contraindicated in individuals who develop or have known hypersensitivity to specific milk
proteins (this does not include lactose intolerance).
- Pregnancy & Lactation - No adverse effects have been reported. A health care practitioner should be consulted if the
patient is pregnant or has reason to believe she is.
- Children - Immunocal has been used in pediatric clinical trials. No adverse effects have been reported.
- Geriatrics - Glutathione levels drop with age. Dosage recommendations may rise with increasing age.
- Adverse Effects IMMUNOCAL is a natural source of protein classified as a Natural Health Product and has not been
statistically assessed for adverse effects. Gastrointestinal bloating and cramps are possible if the product is not sufficiently
rehydrated. Transient urticarial-like skin rash has been reported in rare individuals undergoing severe detoxification
reaction. Skin rash abates when the intake is stopped or reduced.
- Overdose
For management of a suspected drug overdose, CPhA recommends that you contact your regional Poison Control
Centre. See the CPS Directory section for a list of Poison Control Centres.
- Symptoms and Treatment - There have been no reports of toxicity from overdosing on IMMUNOCAL. Glutathione is a
tightly regulated intracellular constituent and is limited in its production by negative feedback inhibition of its own synthesis
through the enzyme gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase.
- Dosage As a natural source of the glutathione cysteine precursor for the maintenance of the good health, 10 g per day
(one pouch) is recommended. As a natural source of the glutathione precursor cysteine for the maintenance of a strong
immune system, 20 g per day is recommended. 30-40 g per day have been used in clinical trials without ill effects.
- IMMUNOCAL is best administered on an empty stomach or with a light meal. Concomitant intake of another high protein
load may adversely affect absorption.
- Supplied Each individually-sealed foil pouch contains: 10 g of powder, 9 g of which is protein. The other is represented by
naturally occurring ingredients including ash, trace minerals and trace amounts of vitamins. Boxes of 30 pouches.
- IMMUNOCAL is a dehydrated powdered protein isolate. It must be appropriately rehydrated before use. Remains bioactive
up to 12 hours after mixing. Do not heat or use a hot liquid to rehydrate the product or use a high-speed blender for
reconstitution. These methods will decrease the effect of the product. Proper mixing is imperative. Consult instructions
included in packaging. Store in a cool dry environment. Avoid excessive heat. Refrigeration is not necessary.
Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties, online version (e-CPS).
© Canadian Pharmacists Association, 2008. All rights reserved.
Please email me if you wish to order
Immunacol or Immunacol Platinum.
This is an exceptional product
that helps so many people. Possibly the
best choice you could ever make for your
health!!!
