Glutathione, Glutathione total, free, oxidized from EDTA
This test must be performed at the lab.
Glutathione is a common peptide found in tissues. It is an antioxidant.
(An additional EDTA tube is required for this examination)
Glutathione is the main body's own substance, which the body uses to render toxins harmless. There are many factors that reduce the body's supply of glutathione such as: stress, pollution, radiation, infection, medications, poor diet, aging, sports and injury.
Three major functions of glutathione are:
- the detoxifying properties
- the immune-enhancing properties
- the anti-oxidative function
Reference values: Oxidative stress
GSHG - Glutathione, total* expressed in mg/l
GSHF - Reduziertes Glutathion* 150-460 mg/l
(free glutathione, GSHF)
GSSG - Glutathione, oxidized* 15-90 mg/l
In principle, the body can make its own glutathione from amino acids cysteine, glutamine and glycine. The combination of stress and unhealthy diet or disease can cause the body to become unable to produce adequate amounts of glutathione. Glutathione deficiency leads to cell damage and the loss to function optimally. Your energy drops and inflammation becomes more frequent, diseases develop more easily or the aging process is accelerated.
To protect the body from free radicals, antioxidants and glutathione are used. Together, these form a solid foundation for avoiding disorders and diseases. Because free radicals are captured, they cannot damage healthy body cells.
Decrease in glutathione occurs in:
- diabetes
- inflammatory conditions
- liver damage
- chronic lymphoedema
- tumors
- radiation damage
- environmental tax
- drug use
- from cigarette smoke
- Glutathione is consumed during oxidative stress
Oxidative stress can be caused by smoking, medication use, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive sun exposure, intense exercise, obesity, hypoglycemia and depression, among others.
Foods that promote glutathione production:
Almonds, Walnuts, Brazil nuts, green asparagus, avocados, parsley, kiwis, kale, broccoli, sweet potatoes, melon, carrots, garlic, sardines, Brussels sprouts, watercress, cauliflower, leeks, garlic, onions, eggs, fish, chicken. Or for vegetarians: chickpeas, lentils, rice protein or hemp protein.
Vitamins and minerals needed for Glutathione production are: Vitamins B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, Sulfur and Magnesium.
Glutathione is a highly specialized test, the results can take up to 2 weeks.
