Search Body Detox

The Master Antioxidant

by Dr. Marcus Laux

Published 05/01/09

Several Points to Keep in Mind

When we consider the full spectrum of health and disease, there are several simple and profound facts that stand out about the healthiest people:

• They have bodies with more water content and less fat storage
• They eat more nutritionally complex and dense foods
• They exercise regularly
• They have a positive outlook on life
• They have higher GSH levels

This last point is significant. It's been found that an adequate level of GSH is the best biomarker for good health. In one review, almost 80 percent of people with chronic ailments were found to be deficient in GSH. In fact, low levels of GSH are involved in most all disease states-including AIDS, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disease, kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, neurological disease, eye disease, liver disease, and cancer.

We also know that alcoholics and drug addicts have low GSH levels-though it's unlikely that low GSH caused their addictions. Rather, the substance abuse most likely caused their GSH levels to decline-undoubtedly contributing to additional health problems to come.

"Reduced Glutathione" is Not "Diminished Glutathione"

As I mentioned earlier, GSH refers to "reduced glutathione" (the form of that is functionally protective). The name may make it sound as if the glutathione has diminished capabilities, but in this case "reduced" means that it's capable of attaching an electron to a free radical in order to stabilize it. In fact, it is this ability that partly gives GSH its health and healing effects. Once it donates an electron, it is considered oxidized and it can't help us again until it gets regenerated by quickly picking up an electron from one of the other antioxidants with which it works closely-such as vitamin E, selenium, alpha lipoic acid, and flavonoids. If it can't, the oxidized GSH is transported out of the body as waste.

Until now, we could to try to improve our GSH levels through either an IV infusion or in a roundabout fashion of secondary supplements and diet to help the body produce more GSH on its own. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), whey protein, specific amino acid supplements (such as cysteine), and other antioxidants have played a role in improving GSH levels and activity. Following the best protocols, these supplements helped in some cases, but with a lot of effort. Taking GSH orally did not prove to be effective since it was deactivated by the GI tract. But, today's liposomal technology delivery vehicle can ensure this intrinsic DNA-mandated defense gets in without being deactivated.

What's a Liposome?

A liposome is a cell-like membrane with a fat-soluble exterior and a watery, gel-like interior. The GSH liposome is made from soy lecithin, a phospholipid that's exactly like what is found in human cells. The liposome delivery system (with its proven high absorbability) can keep the enclosed GSH intact and protected until it breaks down after it's absorbed by body cells and tissues. This liquid contains exactingly miniature nanospheres of liposomes sized between 100 and 500 nanometers. Using this technology, human studies show over a 90 percent absorption rate.

I learned of this new form of delivering GSH from a close relative's on-going health challenge. I'm using liposomal GSH in my relative's case due to its known benefit in helping with seizure disorders. Its influence on other neurological diseases is well-documented as well-including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. What's more, it's been shown to have favorable results as an aid in treating autism, cystic fibrosis, heart disease, hypertension, liver disorders, prostate problems, and lung disease-and the list is continually expanding.

I am using a product called LipoCeutical Glutathione. It does not require a prescription. While I've yet to see research demonstrating this GSH product in clinical trials, what has gotten my attention is the growing numbers of doctors who have run ongoing laboratory levels with patients, and who have documented the positive patient improvements. The neurologist I'm working with for my relative has validated this to my satisfaction.

I would consider using GSH on an ongoing basis for recovery. Patients should cycle through a program of using it for one to two months, two times a year-spring and fall-and whenever stress factors increase.

A two-ounce bottle of LipoCeutical Glutathione is $50, and a four-ounce bottle is $90 from Wellness Health. That may seem a little steep, but it's well worth the price for getting this master antioxidant in its best form. 

1 2