In previous articles we have explained why Glutathione is called the Master Antioxidant. Nature has made our body so magnificently, it contains antioxidants like glutathione to fight with free radicals. Glutathione is a protein combined made up of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamine, and glycine. It protects cells from reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. It also combat with mercury and POP (persistent organic pollutants). Both POPs and mercury cause oxidative stress. Glutathione helps in vitamins C and E regeneration. When liver metabolises chemical toxins, glutathione neutralises the free radicals formed during the metabolism of the chemical toxins. Then It helps in the excretion of products of liver metabolism.
Natural Ways to get Glutathione
There are vegetables and foods that contain naturally-occurring glutathione. These include spinach, okra, turmeric, asparagus and avocados. However, storage conditions and cooking methods can affect the amounts of glutathione it contains. Hence, it is advisable to not over cook and on high flame to retain natural taste and nutritional values.
Consuming the right food in the right manner will help protect you from free radicals that damage cells and tissues.
Almonds
Almonds are excellent sources of vitamin E, fibre, biotin, monounsaturated fats, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, and trace minerals such as copper, phytonutrients, plant sterols, flavonoids and phenolic acids. A study done by National Library of Medicine showed that the intake of almonds increases glutathione levels amongst smokers by 16%, while their DNA damage decreased by 29%.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a yellow herb with a strong aroma found in every Indian kitchen. Turmeric paste is also applied on skin for bright and beautiful skin. It also contains anti-bacterial properties along with macro-nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Turmeric is rich in polyphenols and the mineral calcium. Animal study reported that curcumin property of turmeric increases glutathione levels in rat liver cells exposed to cytotoxic compounds. It would appear from the study that curcumin from turmeric conjugates with glutathione, thereby increasing the level of glutathione in the cells. There are some more studies and findings on curcumin ensuring its benefits. These findings add evidence to the ability of curcumin to increase glutathione levels and protect cells from further oxidative stress and damage.
Avocado
Avocado is a popular fruit that is likewise found to increase glutathione levels in cells. An animal study showed that avocados could potentially increase glutathione levels and reduce cellular damage in the long term. Notably, the study was conducted for 12 months, which is relatively long.
Okra
A study revealed that okra seeds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The seeds increase glutathione peroxidase levels and superoxide dismutase, which are essential in improving the antioxidant properties of okra.
Asparagus
Green asparagus are rich in phytochemicals and are known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a rich source of glutathione and can be used to increase glutathione levels in the body. However, concerns on whether high heat during cooking can destroy glutathione contents in asparagus. Prolonged cooking of asparagus could decrease glutathione concentrations.
Glutathione levels in green asparagus are reduced by dry heat cooking methods such as pan-frying, baking, and grilling. It is best to cook asparagus quickly if you want to retain glutathione levels. Reduce the cooking time to keep the benefits of asparagus.
Brocoli
Broccoli is grown in cool temperature weather. A study demonstrated that broccoli could increase glutathione synthesis in the liver, resulting in increased antioxidant activities in the liver. It is also necessary to examine if cooking or boiling broccoli can reduce its ability to increase the hepatic synthesis of glutathione. The method and duration of cooking could affect the antioxidant properties of vegetables such as broccoli.
Tuskca Glutathione
Tuskca Glutathione supplement is for skin radiance and to reduce dark spots. The best effervescent tablet for pigmentation and uneven skin tone, it reduces melanin. L-glutathione provides antioxidant support for your skin, and it may help to repair damaged cells and increase collagen levels in your skin to maintain it bright, clear, and elastic for a young appearance. Its additional ingredient vitamin C makes it highly antioxidant. A naturally occurring substance called glutathione works to improve the texture and tone of your skin from the inside out without exposing it to any damaging chemicals or other additives. Clinically proven Opitac Glutathione to promote skin glow and radiance. Glutathione reduces oxidative stress & improves overall complexion. Added vitamin C helps improve effectiveness of glutathione supplement.