Glutathione

Glutathione is a tripeptide produced in every cell of the body, often called the "master antioxidant" and sitting at the heart of cellular defence. Its reach is broad — from balancing oxidative stress and supporting liver detoxification to immune function and skin radiance. Because its levels decline with age, it is one of the cornerstone molecules of a longevity (healthy-ageing) approach.

What Is Glutathione and What Does It Do?

Glutathione is a small molecule made of the amino acids glutamate, cysteine and glycine. It exists in two forms — reduced (GSH) and oxidised (GSSG); the balance between them is one of the most reliable indicators of a cell's oxidative state. Its main roles are:

Antioxidant defence: It directly neutralises free radicals and reactive oxygen species, and also "regenerates" other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, keeping the whole defence network functioning.

Detoxification: It is the key molecule of phase II detoxification in the liver, making heavy metals, environmental toxins, drug metabolites and free radicals water-soluble and easier to excrete.

Immunity and cell health: It supports lymphocyte function, protects mitochondrial function and contributes to intracellular protein balance.

Why It Matters for Longevity

Oxidative stress and chronic low-grade inflammation lie at the centre of cellular ageing. Glutathione levels fall with advancing age, chronic disease, smoking, alcohol and environmental toxin load. Low glutathione is associated with increased oxidative damage, weakened immunity and mitochondrial inefficiency. For this reason glutathione is evaluated not in isolation but as part of a personalised whole — alongside synergistic modalities such as NAD+, alpha-lipoic acid and high-dose vitamin C. You can find the framework of our overall approach in our What Is Longevity? article.

Routes of Administration: IV and Oral

IV (intravenous) glutathione: By bypassing breakdown in the digestive system, it delivers the molecule directly into the bloodstream, giving it the highest bioavailability. It is usually given as a short infusion or push and can be combined with other IV protocols (Myers, vitamin C).

Oral / liposomal forms: Standard oral glutathione is largely broken down in the gastrointestinal tract; liposomal technology partly overcomes this. In addition, the glutathione "precursor" N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and a cysteine-rich diet support the body's own glutathione production.

Frequency and dose are determined by the individual's oxidative load, goals and laboratory assessment. When used for skin radiance, the effect varies from person to person, and realistic expectation management is important.

Who Is It Suitable For, and Is It Safe?

Adults with a high oxidative-stress load (smoking, intense city living, chronic stress), those wishing to improve recovery time and those with general longevity and skin-quality goals can be assessed. Glutathione is generally well tolerated; however, a medical evaluation before treatment is essential in conditions such as a history of asthma, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and chronic disease. As with every longevity plan, the personal picture is first clarified with a biomarker panel and the protocol is individualised accordingly.