Now that we understand the importance of glutathione, how do we maintain healthy levels of this ‘Master Antioxidant”?  One strategy for providing glutathione to the cell and give additional protection to the mitochondria is to provide precursors that are needed for the formation of glutathione.  One very important precursor is a slightly modified amino acid known as N-acetylcysteine (NAC).  N-acetylcysteine is a derivative of the amino acid L-cysteine.  NAC contains a sulfur group know as a thiol, and it is the thiol that gives this amino acid its antioxidant effects.  The cysteine portion of NAC is one of the three peptides that make up the glutathione molecule, and because it provides this building block, more glutathione is produced.

In combination with two other amino acids, glutamine and glycine, N-acetylcysteine promotes the synthesis of glutathione in the liver.  Both N-acetylcysteine and alpha-lipoic acid, when administered together, are precursors or building blocks of glutathione and work synergistically to elevate glutathione levels in the cell.

Physicians have been administering NAC to patients suffering from acute sepsis to elevate levels of glutathione in the mitochondria and protect against organ failure.  Oral supplementation is also an excellent strategy to protect the body as we age.

How do you maintain healthy glutathione levels?