What is Glutathione
Glutathione is a tripeptide synthesized endogenously from glutamate, cysteine and glycine. It is also present in foods such as asparagus, avocado and fresh spinach, although dietary intake contributes only marginally to the body pool.
It exists in a reduced form (GSH) and an oxidized form (GSSG): the ratio between the two is one of the most widely used indicators of the redox balance of a cell.
Role in Longevity and Healthy Aging
Glutathione is the main intracellular antioxidant: it maintains redox balance and supports phase II hepatic detoxification.
Its progressive decline with age reduces the capacity of tissues to neutralize oxidative stress, one of the mechanisms most consistently associated with cellular aging. This is why restoring glutathione levels is a recurring objective in longevity formulations.
Nutraceutical Applications
Because free glutathione is poorly absorbed when taken orally, formulations rely on liposomal forms or on S-acetyl-glutathione, as well as on sublingual delivery and effervescent powders.
An alternative and complementary approach consists of supplying its direct precursor, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), so that the body can synthesize glutathione on its own.
