Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit.
Who is likely to be deficient?
A deficiency can be the result of diseases that increase the need for glutathione,
deficiencies of the amino acids needed for
synthesis, or diseases that inhibit glutathione formation.2 Examples of some health
conditions that are associated with glutathione deficiency include diabetes,
low sperm counts, liver disease,
cataracts, and HIV infection, respiratory
distress syndrome, cancer, and idiopathic
pulmonary fibrosis. Cigarette smoking is also associated with low glutathione levels because
it increases the rate of utilization of glutathione.
How much is usually taken?
There is very little evidence that taking glutathione supplements provides any benefit,
despite promising evidence about the effects of aerosol, intravenous, and intramuscular
glutathione, for people with a wide variety of conditions. People who have a proven
glutathione deficiency, which may require administration of glutathione intravenously,
intramuscularly, or by aerosol, should be treated by a healthcare professional. All ovarian
cancer patients currently taking cisplatin
(Platinol®) should discuss using intravenous glutathione with a healthcare
professional.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
No side effects or interactions are known with oral administration of glutathione.
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with glutathione. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Jones DP, Coates RJ, Flagg EW, et al. Glutathione in foods listed in
the National Cancer Institutes Health Habits and History Food Frequency Questionnaire.
Nutr Cancer 1995;17:57–75.
2. White AC, Thannickal VJ, Fanburg BL. Glutathione deficiency in human
disease. J Nutr Biochem 1994;5:218–26.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only.
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience,
or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur
in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over
the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist
for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in
prescribed medications.
Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
