Gluthathione
Description
Glutathione is a tripeptide composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. It exists in two forms: reduced (GSH), which is active and capable of neutralizing free radicals, and oxidized (GSSG), which occurs after it has performed its antioxidant function. Maintaining a healthy balance of GSH to GSSG is vital for cellular health. This essential molecule is integral to numerous biological processes, including DNA synthesis and repair, protein synthesis, enzyme activation, and regulating cell growth and death. Its primary role in detoxification pathways makes it critical for neutralizing toxins, heavy metals, and carcinogens in the liver and other organs. Beyond its direct antioxidant activity, glutathione supports the immune system by influencing immune cell function and acts as a key component of the body's natural defense against oxidative stress and inflammation. Supplementation is often used to support overall health, liver function, and antioxidant status.
Sources
AsparagusAvocadosSpinachBroccoliBrussels sproutsGarlicOnions
Optimal Dosage
Minimum50 mg
Maximum200 mg
Safety & Toxicity
Toxicity Threshold1000 mg
Toxicity EffectLiver toxicity, kidney damage
Goals
Skin Health
Impact
High effect
Typical dose:500–1000 mg
As the body's master antioxidant, glutathione protects skin cells from oxidative damage caused by UV radiation and pollutants. It also plays a role in detoxification pathways and may influence melanin synthesis by inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme, potentially leading to a brighter, more even skin tone. Oral bioavailability can be a concern, with S-acetyl or liposomal forms often preferred.
View goal →
Anti-Aging
Impact
Lower effect
Typical dose:250–1000 mg
Standard oral glutathione is broken down by digestive enzymes into its constituent amino acids before it can be absorbed, preventing it from raising cellular glutathione levels effectively. For direct supplementation, specialized forms like S-Acetyl-Glutathione or Liposomal Glutathione are necessary for absorption. A more efficient and cost-effective strategy is to supplement with precursors like N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) and Glycine, which the body can use to synthesize its own glutathione.
View goal →
General Health
Impact
Lower effect
Typical dose:250–500 mg
Glutathione is vital for detoxification and neutralizing free radicals. However, when taken orally, standard glutathione is largely broken down in the digestive system before it can be absorbed effectively. For raising systemic levels, liposomal forms offer modest improvement, but precursor supplements like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) are generally considered more reliable and cost-effective.
View goal →
Interactions
Positive Interactions
Cysteine
A direct amino acid precursor necessary for the body's synthesis of glutathione.
Glycine
A direct amino acid precursor necessary for the body's synthesis of glutathione.
Glutamic Acid
A direct amino acid precursor necessary for the body's synthesis of glutathione.
Vitamin C
Helps regenerate and recycle oxidized glutathione back to its active, reduced form.
Selenium
A vital cofactor for glutathione peroxidase, a key enzyme in the glutathione antioxidant system.
Milk Thistle
Supports liver health and is known to enhance the body's production and levels of glutathione.
Vitamin E
Works synergistically as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage alongside glutathione.
Zinc
Plays a role in the activity of several antioxidant enzymes that interact with glutathione pathways.
Riboflavin
As a component of FAD, it is a necessary cofactor for glutathione reductase, which regenerates reduced glutathione.
Niacin
As a component of NAD(P)H, it is essential for the activity of glutathione reductase, which reduces oxidized glutathione.
Recommended products
Advanced Liver Support
Super Nutrition
Gluthathione: 100 mg
A clinical-strength liver support blend that provides exceptional value and comprehensive detox coverage.
L-Glutathione (Reduced) 500 mg
California Gold Nutrition
Gluthathione: 500 mg
A potent, high-value supply of reduced glutathione for daily antioxidant and skin support.
Kyolic AC E & Herbal Antioxidants
Kyolic
Gluthathione: 25 mg
A comprehensive antioxidant complex that blends aged garlic, green tea, and milk thistle for broad systemic protection.
Advanced Antioxidant Formula
Solgar
Gluthathione: 25 mg
A complex antioxidant blend featuring high-quality minerals, vitamins, and a variety of plant extracts.
Liver Refresh
NOW
Gluthathione: 100 mg
A standard-sized liver support formula using milk thistle, NAC, and schisandra for daily detox support.
PQQ CoQ-10
Solaray
Gluthathione: 250 mg
An advanced cellular health formula combining four powerful antioxidants for energy and aging support.
Glutathione 500 mg
Nutricost
Gluthathione: 500 mg
A high-dose, bulk-buy glutathione supplement for long-term antioxidant and skin support.
L-Glutathione (Reduced) 500 mg
California Gold Nutrition
Gluthathione: 500 mg
A high-purity, therapeutic dose of glutathione for powerful daily antioxidant support.
Reduced Glutathione Complex 50 mg Orange Flavored
Source Naturals
Gluthathione: 50 mg
An absorbable liquid glutathione supplement with molybdenum and B2 for antioxidant support.
Reduced Glutathione 250 mg
Source Naturals
Gluthathione: 250 mg
A moderate-dose glutathione tablet for reliable and affordable antioxidant maintenance.
Mega-Liposomal Glutathione+ 750 mg Organic Fruit Flavor
Aurora NutraScience
Gluthathione: 750 mg
A high-potency, highly bioavailable liposomal glutathione for advanced antioxidant and skin support.
Liver Detox
Protocol For Life Balance
Gluthathione: 100 mg
A comprehensive liver support supplement using milk thistle, NAC, and reduced glutathione for daily health.
Chem-Defense Orange Flavored
Source Naturals
Gluthathione: 50 mg
A convenient orange-flavored tablet with molybdenum and glutathione for metabolic enzyme support.
Product stats
Price per product
Average$28.17
Median$25.79
Price per serving
Average$0.56
Median$0.40
Price distribution
Price per serving distribution
Price per
Paired ingredients