Found in virtually every cell of the human body, glutathione is critical in the body’s detoxification process. Glutathione is comprised of three amino acids – glutamate, cysteine, and glycine – and is naturally produced in the body. Great for detoxification, the highest concentration of glutathione can be found in the liver, and plays several roles in the body. Glutathione is essential to maintain a healthy immune system, hence why it’s often referred to as the “mother of all antioxidants,” as it helps protect your cells against oxidative damage. Unfortunately, even though your body makes glutathione, it doesn’t always make enough of it. Even worse is that glutathione production decreases as a person ages and can decrease due to certain diseases. Luckily there are natural ways to increase glutathione production in the body.
Maintaining adequate levels of the antioxidant glutathione is vital if you want to remain healthy and free of disease. To help increase your energy and enhance your immune system check out some of the natural ways to increase glutathione.
• Bone broth has been increasing in popularity lately, and for a good reason. Drinking bone broth is a great way to increase your glutathione levels naturally. This is because it’s rich in the amino acid glycine, one of the building blocks of glutathione.
• Eat plenty of sulfur-rich foods to help prevent cancer and to boost glutathione levels naturally. Sources of sulfur include arugula, kale, broccoli, cabbage, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, parsley, garlic, onions, poultry, fish, and beef.
• Add more foods that are rich in selenium-rich foods into your diet, as it can help maintain and increase your body’s supply of glutathione. Some of the best sources of selenium are Brazil nuts, organ meats, fish, beef, brown rice, legumes, walnuts, and cottage cheese.
• While the body is able to produce glutathione naturally, some foods are naturally rich in glutathione. Some of the richest dietary sources of glutathione are apples, bananas, melon, peppers, okra, potatoes, avocados, spinach, carrots, and asparagus.
• Watch your stress levels. While avoiding stress is not always a possibility, learning how to manage your stress can help protect your glutathione levels. One way is to practice yoga, which can help you de-stress. Stress can deplete glutathione levels, but practicing yoga can help preserve and increase your levels.
• Aim to exercise at least four times a week, as exercising can stimulate your body to produce more glutathione, helping you fight external toxins. No matter what you are in to, all forms of moderate exercise can help increase your glutathione levels.
