Benefits of Reduced Glutathione

When there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to fight them off, damage occurs in the form of oxidative stress. This can result in many diseases that include diabetes, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis. Glutathione was shown to help lessen the impact of oxidative stress through its action on the glutathione system. 

Reduced Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Glutathione was shown to have positive effects on symptoms such as tremors and rigidity associated with Parkinson’s Disease.(1) 

Increased Circulation

Glutathione has been shown to increase circulation in studies on patients with decreased mobility, measured by pain-free walking distance in patients. Accordingly, it was shown to be useful in treating arterial disease.(1) 

Psoriasis Improvement

Glutathione was shown in studies to have an impressive improvement in the symptoms of psoriasis when combined with a whey protein isolate.(2) 

Fatty Liver Disease Treatment

Detoxifying effects upon the liver were observed in studies where high doses of glutathione were administered to patients suffering from chronic steatosic liver disease.(3)

Side Effects

No known serious side effects of using glutathione supplements have been reported. Unverified sources report that taking glutathione long-term has been linked to lower zinc levels and stomach issues.

References

1. Arosio, E., Marchi, S. D., Zannoni, M., Prior, M., & Lechi, A. (2002). Effect of Glutathione Infusion on Leg Arterial Circulation, Cutaneous Microcirculation, and Pain-Free Walking Distance in Patients With Peripheral Obstructive Arterial Disease: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 77(8), 754-759. doi:10.4065/77.8.754
2. Prussick R, Prussick L, Gutman J. Psoriasis Improvement in Patients Using Glutathione-enhancing, Nondenatured Whey Protein Isolate: A Pilot Study. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2013;6(10):23-26.
3. Dentico P, Volpe A, Buongiorno R, et al. Il glutatione nella terapia delle epatopatie croniche steatosiche [Glutathione in the treatment of chronic fatty liver diseases]. Recenti Prog Med. 1995;86(7-8):290-293.