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5. Undenatured Whey Protein Isolate
Whey protein contains proteins like alpha-lactalbumin which is is rich in sulphur-containing amino acids. Heating or pasteurization destroys delicate disulphide bonds that give these proteins their bioactivity. Undenatured whey protein is a non-heated product that preserves bioactive amino acids like cystine. It has been shown in numerous scientific studies and clinical trials to optimize glutathione levels.
6. Curcumin (Turmeric)
Treatment of brain cells called astrocytes, with Indian curry spice, curcumin (turmeric) has been found to increase expression of glutathione S-transferase and protect neurons exposed to oxidant stress. (3)
7. Balloon Flower Root
Changkil saponins (CKS) isolated from roots of Chinese herbal medicine, Platycodon grandiflorum A. DC (Campanulaceae), commonly called Balloon Flower Root or Jie Geng, have been found to increase intracellular glutathione (GSH) content and significantly reduce oxidative injury to liver cells, minimise cell death and lipid peroxidation. (4)
8. Selenium
Selenium is a co-factor for enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Selenium supplements have become popular because some studies suggest they may play a role in decreasing risk of certain cancers, and in how immune system and thyroid gland function. However, too much selenium can cause some toxic effects including gastrointestinal upset, brittle nails, hair loss and mild nerve damage.
Disclaimer: The information here is not provided by medical professionals and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Nutritional supplements, while usually benign, can produce adverse reactions in some people. As with prescribed drugs, long-term effects from supplements are often unknown. Pregnant women and children should not take supplements except after consultation with their healthcare provider. Never exceed recommended dosage on container. If you observe adverse effects stop taking supplement immediately and contact your healthcare provider.
References:
1. The systemic availability of oral glutathione Witschi A, Reddy S, Stofer B, Lauterburg BH. [Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1992;43(6):667-9.]
2. Dietary approach to attenuate oxidative stress, hypertension, and inflammation in cardiovascular system Wu L, Ashraf MH, Facci M, Wang R, Paterson PG, Ferrie A, Juurlink BH. [Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2004 May 4;101(18):7094-9. Epub 2004 Apr 21.]
3. Can Curry Protect Against Alzheimer’s? American Physiological Society (APS) Press release; 16-Apr-2004
4. Protective effect of saponins derived from roots of Platycodon grandiflorum on tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced oxidative hepatotoxicity Lee KJ, Choi CY, Chung YC, Kim YS, Ryu SY, Roh SH, Jeong HG. [Toxicol Lett. 2004 Mar 7;147(3):271-82.]
This article was first published in the July 2004 issue of The Glutathione Report, http://www.glutathione-report.com , a newsletter featuring regular updates on the health benefits of glutathione. Get a Free report on Glutathione in Health and Disease http://www.1whey2health.com