Posted by Jack
There is scientific evidence indicating that Glutathione plays an important role in cellular vitality and retarding the aging process, but studies are still ongoing, although encouraging. L-Glutamine, an amino acide can be used with Alpha Lipoic Acid and NAC to increase Glutathione levels in the body. Interestingly brain glutathione levels have been found to be lower in
patients with Parkinson’s disease. Glutathione deficiency contributes to oxidative stress, which plays a key role in aging and the worsening of many diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, liver disease, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, AIDS, cancer, heart attack, and diabetes. In theory raising the Glutathione levels may provide some relief to these pathologies.
It is interesting to note that Polyphenolic extract from pine bark has been used to treat children suffering from ADHD. It works by increasing the level of Glutathione. Pycnolgenol is sold over the counter. It contains oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) as well as several other bioflavonoids: catechin, epicatechin, phenolic fruit acids (such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid), and taxifolin. Procyanidins are oligometric catechins found at high concentrations in red wine, grapes, cocoa, cranberries, apples, and some supplements such as Pycnogenol.
The concentration of glutathione declines naturally with age and is pronounced in some age-related diseases. Polyphenols and glutathione synthesis regulation.Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 Jan;81(1 Suppl):277S-283S.