Glutathione

Clinical Applications:
• Provides Intracellular Antioxidant Support*
• Supports Healthy Cell Function and Healthy Aging*
• Supports Detoxification*
• Supports a Healthy Immune Response*
• Supports Amino Acid Transport Across Cell Membranes*
• Enhances Antioxidant Activity of Vitamins C and E*

Glutathione:
is an acetylated form of glutathione. This form is well-absorbed and more stable throughout the digestive tract than other forms on the market. The use of stomach acid-resistant capsules (DRcaps™) further protect stability. Laboratory data showed that Glutathione increased intracellular glutathione and had a positive effect on many oxidative stress biomarkers.*

Discussion:
Reduced glutathione, commonly known as glutathione or GSH, is a tripeptide consisting of L-glutamine, L-cysteine, and glycine. It is ubiquitous in living systems. Glutathione biosynthesis can be affected by biochemical individuality and/or dietary factors. Chronic oxidative stress can also deplete cellular glutathione. Precursors to glutathione, such as whey protein, vitamin C, and glutamine, are often recommended to boost glutathione levels in the body; however, results are inconsistent. Biological individuality is such that not every body has equivalent ability to metabolize the precursor to raise glutathione.*

Why Not Give Pure Glutathione?
Unfortunately, most oral forms of glutathione are foul smelling, but more importantly, the majority of an oral dose is oxidized before it can be absorbed and used by the cells. This formulation delivers a unique preparation of glutathione that overcomes these usual limitations. The stability of S-acetylglutathione through the intestinal wall and the plasma is well documented in the literature. Oral intake of S-acetylglutathione increases total glutathione and percent-reduced glutathione. Percent-reduced glutathione is a very significant biomarker of health status.*

Mechanism of Absorption
S-acetylglutathione, a lipid-like compound, is taken up intact by chylomicrons in the gut. The acetyl bond is placed on its thiol group or sulfur group, which prevents oxidation and allows the molecule to pass diffusively into the cell after absorption in the gut. The bond is then cleaved by non-specific enzymes inside the cell. Acetylation prevents the breakdown of glutathione, and S-acetylglutathione does not require energy expenditure to be cleaved to reduced glutathione once it crosses the cell wall.*

Antioxidant Activity
Glutathione functions extensively in tissues and organs throughout the body. It plays critical roles in protecting the body from oxidative stress, maintaining cellular functions, and supporting healthy immune function.[1,4] Many factors can increase cellular exposure to oxidative insult, and therefore increase cellular consumption of nutrients—such as glutathione—that provide antioxidant activity. This may result in a fierce cycle of oxidative stress and challenges to detoxification. Complete biotransformation and protection from oxidative stress are important to maintaining cellular integrity and tissue health.*

Other Benefits of Maintaining Healthy Glutathione Levels
Much information related to mitochondrial health has surfaced in the literature. Mitochondria, the energy-producing powerhouses of cells, are also the primary intracellular site of oxygen consumption and the major source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). S-acetylglutathione has been shown to cross the membrane of the mitochondria, increasing the organelle’s activity and minimizing ROS.[8,9] Reduction of ROS is associated with maintaining mitochondrial integrity and function, and improved mitochondrial health is believed to support overall health and energy.*

S-acetyl glutathione has also been shown to decrease TNF-alpha, NF-kappa beta, and F-2 isoprostane.[4,9-12] Additionally, there is mounting evidence that intracellular glutathione levels in antigen-presenting cells (e.g. macrophages) may influence the Th1/Th2 cytokine response pattern and promote a balanced immune reaction.*

Directions:
Take one to two capsules one to two times daily, or as directed by your healthcare professional. Consult your healthcare professional prior to use. Individuals taking medication should discuss potential interactions with their healthcare professional. Do not use if the tamper seal is damaged.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.