Scientists call glutathione (GSH) an essential health “A.I.D.” The acronym, A.I.D., refers to glutathione’s uses as an Antioxidant, an Immune system booster and a Detoxifier.
These terms are probably familiar, you know they are things that are good for you, but what exactly do they mean?
Let’s take a closer look at the role of antioxidants.
If you’ve ever owned a vehicle that rusted you already understand what oxidation is. Simply put oxidation is the reaction of a substance when oxygen is present. Our bodies need oxygen to live; cells consume oxygen and nutrients to produce energy. That oxidation process creates free radicals. Free radicals damage cells much like rust damages your car. Free radicals are waste products that our cells must neutralize by using antioxidants. GSH is the body’s main antioxidant.
The oxidation/antioxidation process is continuous. When antioxidants are depleted, free radicals proliferate, resulting in oxidative stress and cell degeneration. Without the presence of glutathione the other antioxidants are depleted even more quickly. It is well known that cancer has been linked to free radicals but the list of other diseases caused by oxidative stress is growing.
And as we age, our ability to manage this oxidative stress decreases. Poor diet, lack of exercise, drugs, stress, trauma, fatigue and pollution are some factors that contribute to, and compound, oxidative stress. We must continue to provide our body with the nutrients it needs to replenish its stores of antioxidants.
We’ll learn more about the role of glutathione (GSH) as an antioxidant next time.
Steps to Improve Your Health
Dr. Steven Dell
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