Glutathione
Also called: Reduced glutathione, GSH, S-acetyl glutathione
Your body's main built-in antioxidant, made from three amino acids. It helps the liver process toxins and protects cells from damage.
Medical Disclaimer
Supplements can interact with medications and aren't right for everyone, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with a chronic condition. Ask your provider before you start.
Studied for
- Antioxidant support
- Liver and detox support
- Stress on the body from illness, smoking, or toxins (limited evidence)
- Skin brightening (limited evidence)
Found naturally in
- Your body makes it from cysteine, glycine, and glutamine
- Asparagus, spinach, and avocado
- Okra and broccoli
- Protein foods supply the building blocks
Label red flags
- Liposomal products that don't say how much glutathione is in each serving
- Skin-whitening products that promise dramatic results
Check with a provider
- Asthma. Don't inhale glutathione (as in a nebulizer), since it has tightened the airways in some people.
- Cancer or in cancer treatment. Ask your oncology team first.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (not well studied)
- Stomach upset or a sulfur taste are the most common side effects
Usually found in liver and detox formulas, antioxidant blends, mold and toxin support formulas. Browse the Lesher Wellness store
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Liver
Your liver filters your blood, processes hormones and medicines, and makes bile to digest fat.
Lungs
Your lungs bring oxygen in and carry carbon dioxide out. Several autoimmune conditions can inflame or scar lung tissue, often quietly at first.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
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Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.