What To Avoid When Taking Glutathione?

From glowing skin to a powerful immune system, glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, has a significant role to play in the body. It is no wonder that more and more people are now choosing to take glutathione supplements. But of course, no pain, no gain. There are a few things a person needs to avoid when taking glutathione. From your morning cuppa Joe to your evening glass of wine, cutting back or avoiding certain lifestyle habits can help you get the most out of the supplement.

Did You Know?

Many aspects of your skin health and aging, including the risk for conditions like adult acne, rosacea, tanning, and the likelihood of premature wrinkles, stretch marks, cellulite, etc., are highly influenced by your genes. You can learn in-depth about your skin using your existing ancestry genetic test DNA data.

Learn More

Glutathione: The King Of Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are compounds that protect the cells from oxidative damage. They nullify the effects of free radicals and, as a result, prevent cell damage.

The antioxidant glutathione comprises three types of amino acids – glutamic acid, glycine, and cysteine.

Glutathione is produced in the body (by the liver and nerve cells) and can also be obtained from diet. It is called the king of antioxidants because it is highly potent.

Glutathione plays a role in the following functions.

Important for mitochondrial functions
Improve immunity
Neutralize free radicals
Tissue repair
Detoxification of both internally produced and externally consumed compounds
Regeneration of vitamins E and C
Transport mercury from the brain and the cells

Why Do People Take Glutathione?

While the body usually produces adequate levels of glutathione, causes like stress, poor diet, or a chronic health condition can reduce glutathione levels.

Some people may be born with a change in the GSS gene responsible for producing glutathione synthetase.

GSS gene mutation can prevent the body from producing adequate glutathione levels, leading to deficiency.

Some individuals may show signs of glutathione deficiency, including frequent infections, loss of coordination, seizures, and excess acid buildup.

In all these cases, doctors may check the total serum glutathione levels and suggest supplementation if they are low.

Glutathione may be used along with chemotherapy drugs to help cell repair and flush out toxic substances.

Since glutathione is an over-the-counter supplement, others may also try it to increase their antioxidant intake.

Some studies suggest higher levels of glutathione may help lose weight and body fat percentage.

Glutathione is also used widely for its ability to lighten skin tone.

Studies report glutathione isn’t an effective skin-lightening agent. According to experts, any benefit seen is reversed after stopping it.

However, these haven’t stopped people from giving the supplement a try to lighten skin tone.

What Forms Of Glutathione Are Available?

The following are some of the common forms of glutathione available.

Reduced glutathione is an active form of glutathione and can effectively neutralize free radicals in the body.
Acetyl glutathione is another form of active glutathione.
Liposomal glutathione is a form where the glutathione molecule is encapsulated inside a liquid, improving its absorption rate.

Glutathione supplements are available as capsules, gels, liquid supplements, skin patches, sprays, and intravenous injections.

Recommended Dosage Of Glutathione

250-500 mg/day of glutathione may be safe for adults.

It is essential to talk to your primary care provider and confirm dosage levels before starting any supplements.

What To Avoid When Taking Glutathione?

If you are taking glutathione, the following can interact with the same and lead to either unpleasant side effects or lowered efficacy of the supplement.

Smoking

Smoking is a primary cause of preventable oxidative damage in the body.

The primary role of glutathione supplements is to fight free radical damage and flush out toxins.

Smoking is something to avoid when taking glutathione because it may counteract the beneficial effects of glutathione.

Alcohol

Excess alcohol consumption can damage the liver, which helps metabolize glutathione.

Just like smoking, alcohol consumption also leads to oxidative damage.

Glutathione may not be beneficial to the body if combined with alcohol consumption.

Certain Medications

While there are no specific drug interactions identified for glutathione, this does not mean there aren’t any.

If you are on medications, please talk to your doctor before starting glutathione.

Caffeine

Consumption of caffeine may increase reduced glutathione levels in the body.

However, consuming caffeine and glutathione together may affect glutathione absorption levels and reduce its bioavailability.

So, to optimize glutathione supplementation, do not drink coffee a few hours before or after taking the supplements.

Aspartame

Aspartame is a popular no-calorie sweetener used in many foods and beverages to reduce overall sugar and calorie count.

Studies report that chronic aspartame consumption may decrease reduced and oxidized glutathione levels in the liver.

So, avoiding aspartame when taking glutathione may improve the effectiveness of the antioxidant.

Food Preservatives

There are two reasons why preservative-laden food and beverages may not benefit those on glutathione supplementation.

Studies report that using preservatives like sodium benzoate and sodium metabisulfite reduces glutathione levels in the body.
Preservatives in packaged and processed foods help improve shelf life. Such foods lack essential nutrients to boost natural glutathione levels or improve their bio-absorption.

Side Effects Of Glutathione

While regular doses of glutathione are generally well tolerated, high doses may be toxic to the body.

In rare cases, glutathione supplements can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headaches, or skin rashes.

If you experience any new symptoms while on glutathione, stop using the supplement and talk to your primary care provider.

Individuals with existing health conditions must consult their doctors before using glutathione supplements.

Other FAQs On Glutathione

When Should Glutathione Be Avoided?

The effects of glutathione on pregnant or breastfeeding women haven’t been studied well.

Avoiding the supplement during these phases is better unless a doctor recommends it.

People with severe liver or kidney conditions must exercise caution while using any supplement.

What Can I Eat With Glutathione?

Some studies report that vitamin E and C levels help raise serum glutathione levels and make it more effective for the body.

Eating foods rich in vitamin E and vitamin C is one way to improve glutathione absorption.

Selenium, an essential mineral, is needed for the body to absorb and use glutathione.

Studies report that selenium supplements increased serum glutathione levels in just three months.

Foods like organ meat, beef, fish, cottage cheese, and brown rice are natural sources of selenium.

Does Glutathione Affect Periods?

Glutathione supplements shouldn’t affect regular menstrual cycles.

However, some studies report that consuming glutathione may increase serum estrogen levels during menstrual cycles.

Estrogen is a beneficial hormone during the fertile periods of the menstrual cycle and plays a role in preparing the body for pregnancy.

Can I Take Vitamin D Along With Glutathione?

Vitamin D is essential for maintaining healthy bones and immune systems.

Humans receive their quotas of vitamin D from sun exposure, which is why most adults are deficient in this nutrient these days.

A 2020 study reports that vitamin D supplementation may increase Glutathione Peroxidase-1 levels in the body.

Taking vitamin D along with glutathione may be beneficial. Always discuss with your provider before combining two or more supplements.

Natural Sources Of Glutathione

The following are some of the natural sources of glutathione.

Almonds

A 2007 study reports that almond consumption increases serum glutathione levels by up to 16% and reduces DNA damage by up to 29%.

Almonds also have various other health benefits and are beneficial when consumed regularly.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a yellow-orange spice used to add color and taste to food.

Curcumin, a chemical present in turmeric, is an excellent antioxidant.

Studies report that curcumin increases glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity in the liver.

Avocados

According to a 2017 study, avocado oil may help increase glutathione levels produced in the liver and offer enhanced antioxidant properties.

Sulfur-rich foods

Consuming foods rich in sulfur amino acids may help improve glutathione synthesis, according to a 2011 study.

Some of the food sources rich in sulfur amino acids are cruciferous vegetables, turkey, beef, chicken, nuts, legumes, allium vegetables like garlic, onions, leeks, and shallots, and leafy greens.

Milk thistle

Milk thistle is a natural herb used for its medicinal properties.

It contains a compound called silymarin, which may help restore glutathione levels in the body and modulate the activities of the enzymes that metabolize glutathione.

Other Tips To Get The Maximum Out Of Your Glutathione Safely

Here are some other tips to help get the maximum effects of glutathione.

Get enough sleep every day as sleep restores glutathione levels in the body naturally.
Regular exercise may help restore glutathione levels and improve antioxidant activities.
Reduce alcohol consumption and quit smoking when taking glutathione as they lead to excess oxidative stress and reduce the functioning of the supplement.
A healthy diet provides all the necessary nutrients to boost serum glutathione levels.
Mindfulness practices can help reduce stress levels and allow the body to metabolize glutathione effectively.

Summary: What To Avoid When Taking Glutathione?

Glutathione is an antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative damage and improve immunity.
Glutathione supplements are available over-the-counter and may benefit those with glutathione deficiency or lowered immunity.
Alcohol, tobacco, excess caffeine, aspartame, and packed and processed foods may bring down the efficiency of the supplement and must be avoided when taking glutathione.
Some natural sources that can help increase glutathione levels are turmeric, sulfur-rich foods, milk thistle, avocados, and almonds.
In rare cases, glutathione supplementation can cause unpleasant side effects. Please talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.