Glutathione Side Effects

Glutathione is a naturally occurring molecule your body makes. With a potent antioxidant characteristic, it has many functions that strengthen your immune system and support tissue repair. Here we look at the real, science-based benefits of Glutathione.

This compound has interested scientists. In this post, we will break down what exactly Glutathione is and explain how it works, based on solid evidence. We will also look at whether boosting your Glutathione is worth it, how to do it, and what side effects or risks you need to be aware of while taking peptides.

What Is Glutathione?

Glutathione, or GSH, is a three-amino acid peptide molecule named cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. It is naturally synthesized in our bodies and is present in nearly every cell, where it works to protect against poisonous free radicals.

According to a study in the Journal of Clinical Epidemiology, those with higher Glutathione levels are less likely to acquire age-related diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. This would mean that keeping Glutathione levels in check could prove useful for healthier aging.

As we get older, our body’s own Glutathione level normally decreases. It has been linked in some research to increased risks of age-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, mental impairment, and certain cancers. As a result, scientists are investigating how Glutathione can reverse aging damage and prolong life.

How Does It Work?

Glutathione is an amino acid-synthetized compound that is formed in the liver out of glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. It has been called the body’s “master antioxidant” because of its powerful role in protecting cells from damage. Specifically, it helps to counteract free radicals which are unstable molecules. Although free radicals have some beneficial roles, they are bad when there are too many of them because they cause what is referred to as oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can damage essential parts of cells like proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and DNA.

As oxidative stress builds up, it can lead to increased cell damage and aging. With chronic progression such damage has been linked to chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and other inflammatory disorders.

Glutathione helps to safeguard the body by attacking free radicals directly. It also makes other antioxidants—like vitamins C and E—more effective so that they can function better. The higher the level of antioxidants to oppose free radicals, the healthier and more balanced the body’s function.

Possible Side Effects of Glutathione

Although Glutathione peptide forms are generally safe for most people, some users might experience side effects. They are not common, but can range from mild to severe.

Allergic Reactions

Sometimes, Glutathione is likely to cause an allergy. Those with hypersensitivity might feel:

• Nausea – a queasy feeling that in some cases may lead to vomiting.
• Diarrhea – loose stools that may appear as the body breaks down and eliminates excess Glutathione.
• Stomach cramps – stomach pain or discomfort is commonly linked with the way the body is metabolizing the drug.

Gas and bloating – flatulence is also a possibility.

These side effects are usually temporary and will generally improve as your body adjusts. Taking a low dose and gradually raising it in that manner will serve to reduce these side effects.

Headaches

Certain individuals have reported having headaches after using Glutathione. The cause is not clear but may be related to altered circulation or hydration. Taking lots of water may prevent headaches in sensitive individuals.

Changes in Mineral Levels

Glutathione is able to detoxify the body by combating heavy metals and eliminating them. While it is a good thing, Glutathione in high dosages can interfere with body levels of valuable minerals like zinc. It may cause imbalances or deficiencies if not monitored, especially in those taking high doses for extended periods.

How to Take Glutathione Safely

If you’re planning to incorporate Glutathione into your routine, it’s advisable to do this safely and responsibly. Below are some tips that can help you go the right way:

Tell Your Doctor

Always refer to your doctor before taking any medications, including Glutathione. Your doctor can evaluate your health status, cross check with any drugs you are currently taking, and provide the most appropriate dosage based on your requirements. This is especially required in case you have any medical condition, are pregnant, or are lactating.

Begin with a Low Dose

When introducing Glutathione into your system, it’s smart to start slowly. A minimal starting dose allows your body to adjust and avoids the possibility of side effects like upset stomach or bloating. You can then gradually increase dosage if all goes well, but only if needed.

Choose the Right Form

Glutathione comes in different forms—capsules, powders, liquids, and even sublingual ones. Ordinary oral supplements won’t be absorbed by the body, but newer ones like liposomal Glutathione have been developed to be more efficiently absorbed. For example, Lipolife has a liposomal one that uses advanced encapsulation to increase the body’s capacity to absorb it.
Intravenous (IV) Glutathione would be the best way to deliver antioxidants because it goes straight into your blood but only under the supervision of a capable medical professional.

Watch How You Feel

Once you have started taking Glutathione, pay attention to your health. Check whether you notice any improvement or any side effects—like cramping, gas, or skin irritation—and record it. Tell your doctor about all your reactions, and in case something appears to be abnormal, stop the intake and seek advice from a medical practitioner.

Safety

After reviewing all potential side effects, we can assume that Glutathione is safe to use. However, we should mention that taking any drug needs to be in accordance with your healthcare provider. Make sure to talk to your doctor, go through all the pros and cons, and then decide whether Glutathione is right for you.