Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Glutathione Identified As Possible Autism Cure

Glutathione has been identified as a potential remedy for several disorders, one of which is autism.

Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide. It contains an unusual peptide linkage between the amine group of cysteine and the carboxyl group of the glutamate side chain. Glutathione, an antioxidant, protects cells from toxins such as free radicals.

Simply put, glutathione (GSH) is the body’s master antioxidant. It is a small protein produced naturally in our cells when certain required elements are present. It functions both as an antioxidant and an antitoxin and is a major defense system against illness and aging. Our glutathione level actually indicates our state of health and can predict longevity. Although there are more than 60,000 published papers on the beneficial effects of glutathione replacement, it is still largely ignored by mainstream medicine. In the near future the importance of glutathione will be widely recognized because it has the ability to boost the immune system and fight off the damage of free radicals on the cells.


Modern research has shown that individuals who have low levels of glutathione are susceptible to chronic illness. Decreased levels of glutathione can be brought about by continual stress upon the immune system. As we now know, a lowered immune system can bring about illness and disease. This is a ferocious cycle. Autism is an example of a condition that is always associated with a lowered immune system. While you need glutathione for a productive immune system, a weakened immune system hampers the production of glutathione.


Glutathione has been shown to slow down the aging process, detoxify and improve liver function, strengthen the immune system, and reduce the chances of developing cancer. It is now also seen as a potential remedy for Autism, since glutathione also works to help improve mental functions, increase energy, improve concentration, permit increased exercise, and improve heart and lung function - just to name a few.


Glutathione may not be well-known outside of medical circles, but your body relies on its function every single day.

Important Roles of Glutathione

• Fights against oxidative cell damage (from free radicals)

• Protein Synthesis

• Amino Acid transport

• Cellular detoxification

• Immune system enhancement

• Enzyme activation

• Fights cellular Inflammation

• ATP (energy) production

Our cells are constantly under attack by free radicals, which can cause a reduction of our cells' ability to function optimally. Autism could in fact be caused - at least in some cases - by free radicals.


Where do free radicals come from?

• Created during normal metabolism

• Environmental pollutants like radiation, herbicides, pesticides

• Cigarette smoke

Types of Free Radicals

The fight against free radicals is often a tricky one. There is not a singular form of free radical. Science has confirmed that there are many different types of free radicals, including:

• Superoxide

• Hydrogen Peroxide

• Singlet Oxygen and Hydroxyl Radicals

Important Note: Not all antioxidants can sufficiently match up with all types of free radicals. The great news about glutathione is that regardless of the type of free radical, glutathione has the ability to properly match up and neutralize it, thus increasing cellular protection and function. This is great news for those searching for a cure for Autism.