To understand about glutathione cofactors are, first of all we need to understand what glutathione means.
Glutathione is an important antioxidant in plants, bacteria, fungi, which prevents damage to important cellular components caused by free radicals, peroxides, and heavy metals.
Our body naturally produces glutathione by the liver, but glutathione can also be found in fruits, vegetables, and meats.
However, the problem that arises is that Glutathione secretion can easily get imbalanced leading to different problems. This can happen for a number of reasons.
For instance, our lifestyle and food habits can mean that our body does not know the amount of Glutathione secretion it needs.
This can result in different complications as Glutathione is responsible for a number of essential body functions that we will be looking at below.
Glutathione has been used to protect cancerous cells by conferring resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs in cancer treatment, winemaking, and even cosmetic products such as skin lightening products.
In healthy people, glutathione acts as the body defense mechanism and fighting metal and drug poisoning.
Glutathione cofactors include vitamin C – as an antioxidant, to raise glutathione levels for a short term, and recycle vitamin E and alpha lipoic acid – and vitamin E which assists glutathione in eliminating free radicals and ensure the glutathione enzymes function properly.
B vitamins maintain glutathione and its enzymes in their active forms, participate in the formation of glutathione enzymes, and increase the amount of magnesium – a vital cofactor that can enter cells.
Another cofactor includes selenium which maximizes antioxidant protection, since selenium is closely related to glutathione.
Magnesium, zinc, and alpha lipoic acid are also the cofactors of glutathione. Make sure to keep the intake of glutathione cofactors above the recommended daily amount to prevent deficiencies.
If you’re having Glutathione deficiency in your body, doctors can suggest that you take an oral supplement.
This will ensure that the normal body levels of the substance are maintained and your body can go on functioning normally, without a hindrance.
However, since Glutathione is such an important substance of the body, Glutathione cofactors need to be eaten with care.
While taking Glutathione cofactors pose no serious risks, there have been some reports that talk about the side effects when the supplements are not taken properly and when they are taken and are not needed.
Taking more than the recommended dose may lead to increased flatulence and loose stools, flushing, and weight gain. There have also been reports of fever, diarrhea, and chest tightness among people who take glutathione oral supplements more than the daily intake recommendations.
In the long term, taking glutathione is also linked to low zinc levels.
Although oral glutathione supplements, inhalation intake and intravenous glutathione can increase your glutathione level instantly, there is another way to do so as well.
Since the imbalance in Glutathione levels within the body is often caused by the food habits and your lifestyle, a focus on a healthy lifestyle can do wonders when it comes to attaining normal Glutathione levels in the body.
This often starts by eating the right kind of things, so that the body can function normally.
One easy way is by selecting your foods wisely. Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and parsley contribute in raising glutathione levels.
Turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom can also assist in restoring glutathione healthy levels and boost the activity of its enzymes.
Almonds are also a good source of vitamin E, fulfilling 35% of daily needs in an ounce. Berries are more than tasty fruits, since they are loaded with vitamin C, potassium and fiber.
If you’re a fan of chocolate, you can enjoy dark chocolates and give your body some extra antioxidants. Fish is also one of the ‘superfoods’ because they provide vitamin D and glutamate and glycin-which builds glutathione.
Raw milk, although hard to find, is proved to raise glutathione levels. Other fruits such as orange, grapefruit, guava, kiwi, and avocado can also boost your glutathione level naturally.
Although it requires a lot of effort to improve your glutathione level, the benefits that come with it are certainly worth it. You will have a improved immune system which means resistance to infection and pathogens, timely elimination of cancerous cells, and proper regulation of the immune system.
Apart from that you’ll see your energy levels and mental focus significantly improve along with your physical strength and muscle function.
You can always intake Glutathione cofactors and oral supplements as needed but it is a good idea to focus on your lifestyle as well, so that the imbalance can be improved naturally.
We all strive to have better life quality and glutathione plays quite a role in it. Try applying the tips mentioned above to increase your glutathione levels.