GLUTATHIONE Meaning and
Definition
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Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant molecule found in most living cells. It is composed of three amino acids - cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. Glutathione plays a critical role in maintaining cell health and protecting cells from damage by neutralizing harmful molecules known as free radicals.
As an antioxidant, glutathione helps to reduce oxidative stress and prevent cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen species. It also plays a key role in detoxification processes by binding to various toxins, heavy metals, and carcinogens, facilitating their removal from the body.
Glutathione is involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including protein and DNA synthesis, immune system function, and regulation of cell death. It is essential for maintaining active and healthy immune cells, enabling them to effectively fight off infections and diseases.
In addition to its vital role as an antioxidant, glutathione also supports the functioning of other antioxidants like vitamins C and E, enhancing their effectiveness within the body.
Glutathione levels naturally decline with age, and deficiencies can occur due to various factors such as poor nutrition, chronic diseases, stress, and exposure to environmental toxins. Low levels of glutathione have been associated with various health conditions, including liver disease, cancer, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
Supplementing with glutathione or consuming foods rich in its precursors can help boost glutathione levels in the body. However, the effectiveness of oral glutathione supplementation is still a subject of debate, as the molecule is broken down during digestion.
Common Misspellings for GLUTATHIONE
Etymology of GLUTATHIONE
The word "glutathione" originates from the combination of two terms: "glutamic acid" and "cysteine".
- "Glutamic acid" is an amino acid derived from the Latin term "gluten", meaning "glue" or "sticky substance" due to its adhesive properties.
- "Cysteine" is another amino acid, named after the Greek word "kustis", meaning "bladder" or "sac", due to its presence in certain bladder stones.
Both glutamic acid and cysteine are components of glutathione, a small molecule found in cells throughout the body. Glutathione plays a critical role in various cellular processes, including antioxidant defense, detoxification, and immune system regulation.
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