glutathione supplement facts and product reviews
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is Glutathione?
Glutathione, L, Reduced, and S-Aceytl
Glutathione Benefits
Glutathione Foods
3 WAYS TO SPOT A FAKE
WHY IS GMP CERTIFICATION CRITICAL?
Glutathione Supplements – Product Reviews
THE ULTRAHEALTH STORE - THE COMPANY.
UltraHealth LLC, under its retail arm, the UltraHealth Store, pioneers cutting-edge scientific developments as a biochemistry firm. We focus on crafting high-quality anti-aging compounds that boast a remarkable purity level exceeding 99%. With the collaborative efforts of our FDA-certified cGMP associate and our parent company, GSK International, we've consistently introduced superior, science-based products to both researchers and consumers since 2015.
While the supplement market is vast and diverse, it often faces challenges due to fluctuating regulations, leading to the spread of potentially biased or purely promotional content. Setting us apart, UltraHealth is grounded in empirical evidence derived from rigorous clinical evaluations. Our data stems from respected entities such as the National Institute of Health, the Journal of Biological Chemistry, and ongoing research from prominent U.S. health organizations.
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What is Glutathione?
Glutathione is a tripeptide molecule composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glycine, and glutamate. It is a potent antioxidant present in nearly every cell of the human body. Here are some key points about glutathione:
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Antioxidant Role: As an antioxidant, glutathione neutralizes free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and damage to cells and DNA. This role is vital in preventing cellular damage and maintaining cellular health.
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Detoxification: It plays a crucial role in the liver's detoxification processes. Glutathione binds to toxins, making them more water-soluble and easier for the body to excrete.
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Immune System Support: Glutathione supports the function of white blood cells, which are essential for a robust immune response.
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Redox Regulation: It plays a role in maintaining the balance between oxidation and reduction (redox balance) within cells, which is essential for many cellular functions.
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Regeneration of Other Antioxidants: Glutathione can help regenerate other antioxidants, like vitamins C and E, back to their active forms.
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Drug Metabolism: It is involved in certain drug metabolism processes, either enhancing their effects or aiding in their excretion.
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Cognitive and Neurological Health: Some research suggests that maintaining adequate levels of glutathione might be beneficial for brain health and function. A depletion or deficiency in glutathione has been linked to several diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease.
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Synthesis and Levels: The body naturally produces glutathione, but levels can decrease due to various factors such as aging, disease, and exposure to toxins. Diet, exercise, sleep, and certain supplements can influence glutathione levels.
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Supplementation: Glutathione supplements are available, but there's some debate about their effectiveness. This is because oral supplementation might not increase cellular glutathione levels effectively, as the molecule can break down in the digestive tract before being absorbed. However, liposomal forms, intravenous (IV) injections, and other methods have been developed to enhance its absorption and bioavailability.
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Cosmetic Use: Some people use glutathione for its skin-lightening potential, although this use is controversial and the safety and effectiveness of such treatments are not universally accepted.
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional if considering glutathione supplementation or treatment.
Glutathione, L, Reduced, and S-Acetyl
Glutathione is a tripeptide composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glycine, and glutamate. It is known for its powerful antioxidant properties in the body. Different forms of glutathione are often referred to in scientific literature and supplements. Let's break down the differences:
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L-Glutathione:
- This refers to the biologically active form of glutathione, where the "L" denotes the levorotatory form (chiral form) of the amino acids in the molecule. This is the form that is naturally present and active in humans and other organisms.
- In many contexts, especially in the context of dietary supplements, "L-glutathione" and "glutathione" are used interchangeably.
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Glutathione (Reduced Form or GSH):
- The reduced form of glutathione is often simply called glutathione or abbreviated as GSH. It is the active form in the body that acts as an antioxidant.
- This form of glutathione has an extra electron and is ready to neutralize free radicals by donating this electron.
- It is the predominant form found within cells, where it protects against oxidative stress and other harmful agents.
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S-Acetyl Glutathione:
- This is a derivative of glutathione where an acetyl group is added to the sulfur atom of cysteine.
- S-acetyl glutathione is believed to be more stable than L-glutathione in the digestive tract and may provide a better method for delivering glutathione to the body when taken orally. But if glutathione is protected by a liposomal capsules then all of it is absorbed in the small intestine which provide directed delivery.
- Once absorbed, the body removes the acetyl group, thereby increasing intracellular levels of free glutathione.
Each of these forms has its specific uses, especially in the realm of supplements and therapeutics. When considering supplementation, it's essential to understand the purpose and potential benefits of each form and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best choice for individual needs.
Glutathione Benefits
Glutathione is often referred to as the "master antioxidant" because of its crucial role in maintaining cellular health and combating oxidative stress. While our bodies naturally produce glutathione, several factors, including poor diet, chronic disease, infections, and constant stress, can deplete its levels. Supplementing with glutathione or boosting its natural production can offer several potential benefits:
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Antioxidant Protection: Glutathione neutralizes harmful free radicals, which can damage cells and DNA. This protective effect helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases and slows down the aging process.
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Detoxification: Glutathione plays a significant role in liver detoxification. It binds to toxins, making them more soluble and thus easier for the body to eliminate.
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Strengthened Immune System: Glutathione supports white blood cell function, particularly the T-cells, which fight off infections and diseases. A strong immune response is crucial for warding off illnesses.
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Improved Skin Health: Some individuals take glutathione for its potential skin benefits, such as reducing the signs of aging and combating acne. There's also a controversial claim regarding its skin-lightening effect.
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Neuroprotective Properties: Some studies suggest that maintaining adequate levels of glutathione can be beneficial for cognitive and neurological health. Depletion of glutathione has been observed in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease.
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Reduction of Oxidative Stress: Chronic oxidative stress can lead to various health problems, including diabetes, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis. By countering oxidative stress, glutathione can potentially reduce the risk of these ailments.
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Respiratory Health: Glutathione might support lung function by reducing oxidative stress in the respiratory system. It also helps reduce inflammation in the airways, which can be beneficial for people with asthma.
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Improved Energy Levels: By supporting mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative damage, glutathione may enhance energy production, leading to increased vitality.
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Reduction in Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease: While further research is needed, some studies suggest that glutathione injections may help reduce the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
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Protection Against Autoimmune Diseases: By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, glutathione might help protect against autoimmune diseases.
While the benefits of glutathione are evident, it's essential to approach supplementation with caution. The body regulates glutathione levels, and excessive supplementation might not always lead to increased cellular levels due to its breakdown in the digestive tract, unless taken in a liposomal or enteric capsule form. As always, before starting any supplementation, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.
Antioxidant protection is a critical defense mechanism that the body uses to counteract oxidative stress, which can damage cells and DNA. Let's break this down a bit further:
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Oxidative Stress: This refers to an imbalance between the production of free radicals (and other reactive species) and the body's ability to detoxify these harmful molecules or repair the resulting damage. Free radicals are molecules with unpaired electrons, making them highly reactive and capable of causing damage to cells, proteins, lipids, and DNA.
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Antioxidants: These are molecules that neutralize free radicals by donating an electron, thus preventing the free radical from reacting with and damaging other molecules. The body produces some antioxidants naturally, and others come from our diet, primarily from fruits, vegetables, and certain grains and seeds.
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Protection of Cells and DNA:
- Cellular Protection: The cell membrane, made up of lipids, is vulnerable to oxidative damage, which can compromise the cell's integrity and function. Antioxidants protect these membranes by preventing lipid peroxidation (oxidative degradation of lipids).
- DNA Protection: Oxidative damage to DNA can lead to mutations, which if not repaired, can contribute to the development of cancer and other genetic disorders. Antioxidants help reduce the incidence of DNA oxidative damage, thereby reducing mutation rates.
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Natural Antioxidant Systems: Apart from dietary and supplemental antioxidants, the body has its natural antioxidant defense systems. Enzymes like superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase play a significant role in neutralizing harmful reactive species. Non-enzymatic antioxidants like glutathione, uric acid, and bilirubin also play a role.
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Importance of Balance: While antioxidants are crucial for cellular and DNA protection, it's essential to maintain a balance. Over-supplementation with antioxidants can be counterproductive and may interfere with certain beneficial oxidative processes in the body.
In conclusion, antioxidant protection is a complex and highly coordinated process that preserves the integrity and function of cells and DNA, safeguarding against the detrimental effects of oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Glutathione Foods
Glutathione is a potent antioxidant that the body naturally produces. While the most effective way to increase cellular glutathione levels is through the body's own synthesis, certain foods contain glutathione or its precursors. Consuming these foods may help maintain or slightly increase the body's glutathione levels. Here are some foods known to contain glutathione or support its synthesis:
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Cruciferous Vegetables: These include:
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Bok choy
- Radishes
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Allium Vegetables: This group contains sulfur, which is essential for glutathione synthesis. Examples include:
- Garlic
- Onions
- Leeks
- Shallots
- Chives
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Fruits: Some fruits are sources of glutathione or its precursors. They include:
- Avocadoes (a rich source)
- Tomatoes
- Spinach
- Asparagus
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Oranges
- Strawberries
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Meats: Quality, unprocessed meats can be a good source of dietary cysteine, one of the amino acids required for glutathione synthesis.
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Nuts and Seeds: Especially those that are rich in selenium, like Brazil nuts. Selenium is a cofactor for the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which plays a role in maintaining glutathione levels.
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Whey Protein: High-quality, non-denatured whey protein is rich in cysteine and can support glutathione production.
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Eggs: Particularly the yolks, which are high in sulfur-containing amino acids necessary for glutathione production.
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Unprocessed Whole Grains: These can be a source of glutathione and its precursors, though the content is usually lower compared to some of the foods listed above.
It's worth noting that while consuming foods rich in glutathione can increase the amount of glutathione in the blood, it's not clear how effectively this raises cellular glutathione levels, as some of the molecule may be broken down in the digestive system. However, consuming foods rich in glutathione precursors, especially cysteine and other sulfur-containing amino acids, can effectively support the body's own synthesis of this crucial antioxidant. Adding a good glutatione supplement may be of benefit for older people along with a healthy diet.
3 WAYS TO SPOT A FAKE
It's unfortunate, but the most reliable method to ascertain the genuineness of a dietary supplement is by personally testing it, though this can be an expensive endeavor.
Major e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Walmart, and iHerb might not always ensure the quality of every product on their shelves. Several supplement brands employ deceptive tactics like using fake test results, reviews, and GMP certificates to promote their products of dubious quality. A large number of supplement review platforms that surface in Google search results fail to perform comprehensive evaluations of the products they recommend. Such websites mainly earn through referral commissions, and their actual commitment to protecting consumers from substandard or potentially harmful supplements remains dubious, regardless of their outward assurances.
However, there are cost-free strategies available for independently vetting dietary supplement brands.
We'll delve into how the following complimentary tools can provide insights just by examining a product's label.
- FDA supplement label regulations link - FDA Label
- GMP Company lookup link - FDA Database
1. UPC code lookup -
If your supplement container features a UPC code, navigate to the GS1 website - GS1. Scroll to find and select the GTIN option (the official term for a UPC code) and enter the complete code into the provided search field. After initiating the search, the government database will promptly display the associated company details. If the result indicates the UPC code is invalid, it suggests the code isn't genuine.
Furthermore, if the company name displayed doesn't align with the one on your product, it's possible that the code was replicated and placed on the bottle without authorization. It would be wise to steer clear of such companies.
If your supplement lacks a visible UPC code or it's absent on the company website, you can still search using the company's name. If no UPC codes are linked to the company, it indicates they don't employ UPC codes for their products.
2. FDA supplement label regulations -
Inspect the right-hand side of your supplement bottle where the 'Supplement Facts' are detailed. This label should display the precise name of the active ingredient, its dose, the quantity per serving, and the full address of the company, often under 'manufactured for' or a similar header. To view the comprehensive regulations pertaining to dietary supplement labeling, simply follow this link. FDA Label.
If a company's labeling doesn't comply with FDA guidelines, it likely indicates that they aren't following certified GMP protocols. Proper GMP practices would ensure bottles aren't misbranded or missing crucial details. It would be wise to reconsider using products from such a company.
The aforementioned example accurately represents glutathione. A certified GMP would accept the bulk compound accompanied by an appropriate COA (certificate of analysis), specifying the exact type of glutathione supplied. If only "glutathione" is mentioned, and the GMP receives variants like the L-form, reduced, or S-Acetyl, then the GMP would halt the manufacturing process.
3. GMP Company lookup link - Very few companies display their GMP certificate, which includes the name of the FDA-approved GMP entity. If you possess the GMP name, you can simply enter it into the database search on this website.: FDA Database.
This will display the inception date of the company, the number of inspections they've undergone, and any recorded violations.
If the supplement company doesn't readily share this information, consider reaching out via phone or email to request it. Should they decline or claim it's confidential, exercise caution. A reputable company would willingly and confidently provide this information to their clientele.
WHY IS GMP CERTIFICATION CRITICAL?
GMP is an acronym for "Good Manufacturing Practice." Earning a GMP certification indicates a system where products are regularly crafted and overseen according to recognized quality standards. When a facility earns the "certified GMP" status, it signifies that the establishment has undergone scrutiny and complies with the GMP guidelines established by regulatory bodies.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) upholds GMP regulations for the producers of food, drugs, and medical devices. If a business asserts that their offerings are crafted in a "GMP certified" or "GMP compliant" environment, it signifies their manufacturing procedures have been assessed and satisfy the rigorous standards set by the relevant regulatory institution.
But why is GMP certification pivotal?
Evaluation of ingredient quality upon arrival and after production - safety evaluations.
Without precise and complete labeling, GMP won't finalize the manufacturing process.
Firms utilizing a certified GMP can't evade responsibility by presenting misleading label statements or hazardous goods.
How should you inquire about a supplement company's GMP? Simply reach out.
Dear [Company X],
"I am keen on purchasing (or persisting in purchasing) your merchandise. Could you provide the name of your GMP, allowing me to get in touch with them?"
A mere glance at the FDA label data reveals that a significant number of firms that didn't pass muster weren't genuine. On inspecting the labels of these faltering entities, it was clear that they didn't align with FDA stipulations.
Glutathione Supplements – Product Reviews
We've evaluated the companies mentioned below according to their present spermidine products. Our scrutiny emphasizes data that can be validated via official government portals, ensuring that product labels are in compliance with regulatory and legal norms. Additionally, we take into account bioavailability, examining aspects such as liposomal configurations, the inclusion of additives versus solely active components, and whether the product is derived or synthesized. When other criteria remain uniform, we prioritize products based on the price per gram of glutathione.
While certain firms purport to be liposomal, they fall short. Further technical insights on this can be found in our blog post titled 'The Lipo Lie'. LINK. It is a must read.
The ranking scale is from 0 to 6. Scores of 2 and above are considered trustworthy. Companies with scores below 2 are ones we recommend approaching with caution or avoiding altogether.
UltraHealth Glutathione - Score 5 out of 6
The only company posting their real GMP certificate, real Liposomal capsules, & only one inert additive.
DOUBLEWOOD GLUTATHIONE - Score 4 out of 6
TONIIQ GLUTATHIONE - Score 3 out of 6
NOW GLUTATHIONE - Score 3 out of 6
JARROW GLUTATHIONE - Score 3 out of 6
PROHEALTH GLUTATHIONE - Score 3 out of 6
The above companies are considered reliable.
LUMANUTRITION GLUTATHIONE - Score 2 out of 6
THORNE GLUTATHIONE - Score 2 out of 6
ARENA NUTRITION GLUTATHIONE - Score 1 out of 6
RENUE BY SCIENCE GLUTATHIONE - Score 1 out of 6
The above companies are suspicious and should be avoided.NOTE: Here is how to calculate cost per gram of the active ingredient:
- serving per bottle x mg per serving - X (mg per bottle)
divide X by 1000 = Y (grams per bottle)
divide the price of one bottle by Y = $/gram
BUY NOW!
UltraHealth Glutathione - Score 5 out of 6
Price per gram |
$2.76 / gram* |
Dosage per Capsule | 250 mg |
absorption / safety criteria | |
Reduced L-Glutathione |
yes |
Pure, no added Ingredients | no |
True Liposomal / bio-available | yes |
reliability criteria | |
Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
Real UPC number | yes |
GMP Certification number |
11625918556 |
* includes our VC10 discount for 10% off |
DOUBLEWOOD GLUTATHIONE - Score 4 out of 6
Price per gram |
$2.00 / gram |
Dosage per Capsule | 250 mg |
absorption / safety criteria | |
Reduced L-Glutathione | ? |
Pure, no added Ingredients | no |
True Liposomal / bio-available | yes |
reliability criteria | |
Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
Real UPC number | yes |
GMP Certification number |
no |
TONIIQ GLUTATHIONE - Score 3 out of 6
Price per gram |
$0.52 / gram |
Dosage per Capsule | 500 mg |
absorption / safety criteria | |
Reduced L-Glutathione | yes |
Pure, no added Ingredients | no |
True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
reliability criteria | |
Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
Real UPC number | yes |
GMP Certification number |
no |
NOW GLUTATHIONE - Score 3 out of 6
Price per gram |
$0.72 / gram |
Dosage per Capsule | 500 mg |
absorption / safety criteria | |
Reduced L-Glutathione | yes |
Pure, no added Ingredients | no |
True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
reliability criteria | |
Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
Real UPC number | yes |
GMP Certification number |
no |
JARROW GLUTATHIONE - Score 3 out of 6
Price per gram |
$1.73 / gram |
Dosage per Capsule | 500 mg |
absorption / safety criteria | |
Reduced L-Glutathione | yes |
Pure, no added Ingredients | no |
True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
reliability criteria | |
Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
Real UPC number | yes |
GMP Certification number |
no |
PROHEALTH GLUTATHIONE - Score 3 out of 6
Price per gram$3.74 / gram
Dosage per Capsule 300 mg absorption / safety criteria Reduced L-Glutathione yes Pure, no added Ingredients no True Liposomal / bio-available no reliability criteria Correct FDA Required Label yes Real UPC number yes
GMP Certification number
no
LUMANUTRITION GLUTATHIONE - Score 2 out of 6
Price per gram |
$2.00 / gram |
Dosage per Capsule | 250 mg |
absorption / safety criteria | |
Reduced L-Glutathione | yes |
Pure, no added Ingredients | no |
True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
reliability criteria | |
Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
Real UPC number | no |
GMP Certification number |
no |
THORNE GLUTATHIONE - Score 2 out of 6
Price per gram |
$4.57 / gram |
Dosage per Capsule | 175 mg |
absorption / safety criteria | |
Reduced L-Glutathione | yes |
Pure, no added Ingredients | no |
True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
reliability criteria | |
Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
Real UPC number | no |
GMP Certification number |
no |
ARENA NUTRITION GLUTATHIONE - Score 1 out of 6
Price per gram |
$0.63 / gram |
Dosage per Capsule | 500 mg |
absorption / safety criteria | |
Reduced L-Glutathione | yes |
Pure, no added Ingredients | no |
True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
reliability criteria | |
Correct FDA Required Label | no |
Real UPC number | no |
GMP Certification number |
no |
RENUE BY SCIENCE GLUTATHIONE - Score 1 out of 6
Price per gram |
$4.44 / gram |
Dosage per Capsule | 130 mg |
absorption / safety criteria | |
Reduced L-Glutathione | no |
Pure, no added Ingredients | no |
True Liposomal / bio-available | ? |
reliability criteria | |
Correct FDA Required Label | no |
Real UPC number | no |
GMP Certification number |
no |
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NMN Supplements – Product Reviews
We have not included some companies because they are lesser know, in other overseas countries or to awful to list.
Please us our contact page to ask any questions or request a company to be reviewed.