Glutathione

amino acid

Glutathione is a tripeptide molecule found in nearly every cell, often referred to as a master antioxidant. The body produces it from the amino acids L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, and glycine. Its principal role is protecting tissues from damage caused by reactive oxygen species, toxins, and heavy metals, which is essential for maintaining cellular integrity. Beyond its antioxidant activity, glutathione is involved in DNA synthesis and repair, protein synthesis, enzyme activation, and immune system function. It is particularly concentrated in the liver, where it assists in the detoxification of both metabolic waste products and environmental pollutants. This makes it a central component of the body's natural defense systems. Adequate glutathione levels are important for long-term health, as levels can decline with age, poor nutrition, chronic stress, and toxin exposure. Supporting its production through precursors and cofactors or taking supplements is common for bolstering antioxidant defenses, supporting liver health, and enhancing immune responses to promote cellular vitality and contribute to disease prevention.

Natural sources
AsparagusAvocadosSpinachBroccoliBrussels sproutsGarlicOnionsCabbageLean protein sources (for precursor amino acids)

No public comparison lists found.

Optimal Dosage
Minimum250 mg
Maximum1000 mg
Safety & Toxicity
3 safety notes
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use.
  • Individuals with asthma should use with caution, as it may exacerbate symptoms in some cases.
  • Long-term use of high doses may potentially affect zinc levels.
Goals
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Impact
High effect
Typical dose:250–1000 mg
Glutathione is crucial for cellular defense against oxidative stress, a primary driver of chronic inflammation. Supplementing directly (with a bioavailable form) bolsters the body's ability to quench inflammatory fires, protecting cells from damage and supporting detoxification pathways.

Study evidence

2 studies

Glutathione has mixed, limited evidence for reducing inflammation in people with specific illnesses. Improvements during liver-disease treatment contrast with no clear added benefit in chronic lung disease, leaving general anti-inflammatory effects from ordinary glutathione supplements uncertain.

View goal

Studies

Research connections will load here.
Sources

Up to five highest-ranked published examples per goal. Study counts and charts include all published studies for the connection.

  1. Serum type III procollagen, procollagen V, tumour necrosis factor-a, interleukin-6 in liver cirrhosis after antiviral treatment.
    Li W; Liu X; Bi F · Journal of medical biochemistry · 2025
    Randomized trial92 participantsAnti-Inflammatory Support
  2. Evaluation of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of sublingual glutathione on COPD patients.
    Farag A; Abass W; Qassem H · Journal of medicine and life · 2024
    Cohort study50 participantsAnti-Inflammatory Support