Glutathione Supplementation Reduces Oxidative Stress

ATLANTA—New research shows that taking a daily glutathione (GSH) supplement can raise blood levels of GSH and reduce oxidative stress in human subjects. (Eur J Nutr. 2014 May 5. DOI: 10.1007/s00394-014-0706-z)

The study measured the effects of GSH supplementation at 250 mg/day and 1000 mg/day on glutathione levels in different blood components and exfoliated buccal mucosal cells over a six-month period. Subjects included 54 healthy adults ranging from 28 to 72 years of age.

Results revealed for the first time that daily consumption of a Setria® glutathione supplement was effective at increasing body stores of glutathione. At six months, mean glutathione levels increased 30 percent to 35 percent in erythrocytes, plasma, and lymphocytes, and 260 percent in buccal cells in the high dose group. Glutathione levels increased 17 percent and 29 percent in blood and erythrocytes, respectively, in the low dose group. A reduction in oxidative stress in both glutathione dose groups was indicated by decreases in the oxidized to reduced glutathione ratio in whole blood after six months.

According to the study, the effects of glutathione supplementation on the levels of the glutathione precursor cysteine in plasma and the activity of the rate-limiting glutathione biosynthetic enzyme GCL in erythrocytes were examined after the six-month study period. No changes were observed in cyst(e)ine concentrations or GCL activity in any of the groups.

This study was supported by Kyowa Hakko USA, Inc. and Kyowa Hakko Bio. Ltd.

Previous research also indicates glutathione aids in immunity and benefits consumers with diabetes.