Benefits from Glutathione Supplementation

Glutathione is the so-called "father of antioxidants". It was so named because it neutralizes free radicals and supports DNA repair. It also has very strong antioxidant properties, which eliminates toxins and free radicals in our body. What's more, it helps the immune system support our immunity. And these are just some of the very important functions of glutathione in the fight against Lyme disease.

Glutathione consists of three amino acids: glutamic acid, glycine and cysteine ​​(NAC).

Glutamine: is an amino acid that is part of the compounds that are proteins. Its main activity is the regeneration of the intestinal mucosa, which supports the functioning of the intestines. It is also responsible for the multiplication of immune cells, which helps fight various types of infections and viruses. When enhancing immunity, it is also important that in the "fight" of the organism with the bacteria, greater amounts of glutamine are used, and therefore it should be supplemented if you have chronic disease. Its action, specifically in the case of Lyme disease and its co-infections, protects against the movement of bacteria, which has a direct impact on inflammation.

Glycine: belongs to endogenous amino acids, i.e. those that the body can synthesize itself. In the case of Lyme disease and its co-infections, however, the body minght not be able to synthesize enough amount of this amino acid, therefore its supplementation or increased supply from food is recommended (foods rich of this amino acid are: buckwheat, pumpkin seeds, fish, red lentils, wheat bran, raspberries). It is extremely important because glycine takes part in the liver support process. It reduces inflammation in our body and improves the quality of sleep. Glycine deficiency may contribute to the development of depression or problems with concentration.

Cysteine ​​(NAC): it is also one of the essential amino acids, however, it is worth knowing that to ensure the optimal amount, our menu should be rich in products such as: sunflower seeds, soybeans, walnuts or legume seeds (lentils, chickpeas, beans) . NAC significantly increases the body's resistance and minimizes the risk of bacterial, fungal or viral infections. And most importantly, it allows you to increase the production of glutathione in the body.

Glutathione level testing:

When we decide to test, it is worth checking the level of reduced and total glutathione. If the ratio of the former to the latter exceeds the cut-off value (> 0.8), it is worth considering supplementation.

What supplement to use?

When we decide to take supplementation, it is important to choose the right form. The overall bioavailability and absorbability of glutathione is low, so in order to benefit, it must be taken in a reduced (or active) form. When supplementing with glutathione, you should also take care of a sufficient supply of vitamin E, vitamin C and selenium from the diet.

You can get both NAC and Glutation in reduced form from Aliness

- NAC N-Acetyl L-Cysteine, 500 mg, 100 caps

- L-Glutathione reduced 500 mg, 100 caps.

Health benefits of glutathione related to Lyme disease?

1. Supports the immune system
As a result of infection, the oxidative stress and the inflammation is increasing which leads to glutathione deficiency. When it is deficient, immune cells lose their ability to fight the disease. Restoring the natural level of glutathione reduces the severity of symptoms.

2. It has an impact on mental health
People with depression have lower levels of glutathione. 

3. Reduces inflammation
It is able to inhibit the production of cytokines.

4. Reduces antioxidant stress
It reduces reactive oxygen species, and thus supports other antioxidants such as vitamin E.

5. Supports the intestines
Glutathione supports the action of glutathione peroxidase, which is a key enzyme which participates in the removal of free radicals.

6. Maintains a healthy liver
It reduces damage to liver cells which may prevent liver problems.

Glutathione is therefore essential in supporting the body in the fight against Borrelia spirochetes which makes it a great addition to the core Buhner protocol.