Glutathione
What is Glutathione?
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant found in every cell in the body and made in the liver and is made up of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamate, and glycine [1]
Glutathione can be found as reduced or oxidized. Oxidized glutathione is essentially the glutathione that has been “used” in the body, and can be recycled back into the reduced form to be used again. This process may be abnormal in those with autism, as research shows us that both oxidized glutathione and the ratio of oxidized to reduced glutathione are increased in individuals with ASD [1]
As an antioxidant, glutathione combats free radicals, which can cause oxidative damage in the body. In fact, studies have shown that individuals with autism have increased levels of oxidative stress and lower antioxidant capacity [2]
In addition to its roles in decreasing oxidative stress, glutathione plays many other critical roles in the body including neutralizing superoxide radicals, co-factoring for other antioxidant enzymes, regenerating vitamin C and vitamin E, transporting mercury out of cells and the brain, supporting mitochondrial function and maintenance of mitochondrial DNA, and playing a role in immune support [3].
Research suggests that individuals with autism have lower levels of reduced glutathione systemically and in certain areas of the brain which may contribute to overall oxidative stress, immune dysfunction, and may lead to neurodevelopmental abnormalities [4-5]
Balancing methylation may aid in improving glutathione redox status [6]
Sources of Glutathione
Glutathione is present in many dietary sources, though its amino acid precursors are often more abundant. Food sources that may increase glutathione include:
Mushrooms [7]
Broccoli (in one study, just one portion of broccoli increased plasma antioxidant levels and improved cell resistance against DNA damage [8])
Asparagus
Spinach
Cantaloupe
Tomato
Carrot
Supplementation
Glutathione can be taken orally or used transdermally via a glutathione patch. Oral supplementation options may be in capsule or liquid form. Liquid glutathione often has an unfavorable taste, so it is recommended to be mixed with juice when using with children with selective palates. Glutathione should be taken in a reduced liposomal form for optimal absorption.
One study shows that glutathione taken orally improves glutathione levels better than transdermal (patch) glutathione. [9]
Examples of common glutathione supplements include:
DISCLAIMER: Before starting any supplement or medication, always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it is a good fit for your child. Dosage can vary based on age, weight, gender, and current diet.
Note: All supplements are linked to Amazon for convenience, however, buying supplements on Amazon does not guarantee quality, as there are many “unverified resellers” selling nutrition supplements. To buy supplements that are verified to be sent directly to the consumer, you can create an account on the Autism Dietitian FullScript and search for the respective supplement under “Catalog”.
