Glutathione (Reduced / S-Acetyl)

Also known as: GSH · L-glutathione · Setria glutathione · S-acetyl-L-glutathione

●●○Moderate Evidence

The body's primary intracellular antioxidant. Oral absorption is poor with standard forms — S-acetyl glutathione or liposomal glutathione have meaningful bioavailability; NAC is the more cost-effective precursor.

Effective Dose

250–1000mg / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Moderate

Anti-Inflammation & Antioxidants

Mechanism

Master intracellular antioxidant, Phase II detoxification, immune modulation

primary action

Best For

Liver protection

Immune support, Skin brightness, Detoxification

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Glutathione (Reduced / S-Acetyl)?

Glutathione is a tripeptide (glutamate + cysteine + glycine) found in virtually every cell, with highest concentrations in the liver. It is the central hub of cellular antioxidant defence, Phase II detoxification, immune cell function, and heavy metal chelation. Oral standard glutathione has very poor bioavailability due to gut degradation; specialised forms or precursor supplementation (NAC) are more practical.

How It Works: The Science

Reduced glutathione (GSH) donates electrons to neutralise hydrogen peroxide (via GPx), lipid peroxides, and electrophilic toxins. It conjugates with Phase II detoxification substrates (via glutathione S-transferases) to form water-soluble metabolites for excretion. GSH also reduces oxidised ascorbate and alpha-tocopherol radicals back to their active forms.

Primary Mechanism

Master intracellular antioxidant, Phase II detoxification, immune modulation

Evidence-Based Benefits

Increases blood and tissue glutathione levels

moderate

Setria RCT (Richie et al., 2015) — 500mg/day for 6 months significantly raised blood GSH

Reduces oxidative stress in athletes

moderate

Aoi et al. (2015) — reduced exercise-induced oxidative damage markers

Supports liver function and detoxification

moderate

Used clinically for paracetamol overdose and alcoholic liver disease

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

250–1000mg / day

250–1000mg/day. S-acetyl glutathione: best oral bioavailability. Liposomal glutathione: good absorption. Standard reduced glutathione: poorly absorbed. NAC (600mg/day) is more cost-effective for raising glutathione if budget is a concern.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Excellent safety profile. Very well tolerated even at high doses. May reduce mercury and lead burden (chelation) — potentially beneficial but monitor if on heavy metal detox protocols.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for

Liver protectionImmune supportSkin brightnessDetoxification

Who it's for

Heavy alcohol consumers, those with liver disease, individuals with high toxic burden, athletes with high oxidative stress, and those with known glutathione deficiency (e.g., G6PD deficiency management).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Glutathione (Reduced / S-Acetyl)?

Is Glutathione (Reduced / S-Acetyl) safe?

Excellent safety profile. Very well tolerated even at high doses. May reduce mercury and lead burden (chelation) — potentially beneficial but monitor if on heavy metal detox protocols.

How does Glutathione (Reduced / S-Acetyl) work?

Who should take Glutathione (Reduced / S-Acetyl)?

Related Ingredients

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)Milk Thistle (Silymarin)Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →