If you’re tuned into the wellness world, you may have already heard of glutathione - and if you haven’t, you’re in for a treat.
It’s nothing more and nothing less than one of the most powerful antioxidants in the body, working super hard to protect cells and keep them healthy.
The health benefits of glutathione include supporting immune function, aiding detoxification, and helping to reduce oxidative stress, which can positively impact various aspects of your health.
Supporting your natural levels of this master antioxidant is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your body, especially when age, stress, poor nutrition and environmental pollutants can hinder them.
Glutathione plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular health and overall health by protecting your cells from damage and supporting multiple bodily functions.
So, let’s examine what glutathione has to offer, how it can help you, and how you can support it…
Let’s start with the basics… what is glutathione?
Key Takeaways
- Glutathione is the body’s “master antioxidant,” essential for cellular protection, immune function, and detoxification.
- Liposomal glutathione improves absorption by encapsulating glutathione in liposomes, helping it reach cells more effectively than standard oral forms.
- Benefits may include better brain health, stronger immunity, healthier aging, and improved liver and cardiovascular function.
- Research on liposomal glutathione is promising, but is in its early stages.
- For proven glutathione support, consider supplements containing Setria® Glutathione, a clinically backed and highly bioavailable form.
Looking for proven glutathione support?
What is Glutathione?
Glutathione is synthesized in the liver from three amino acids - cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid - and is found in every single cell in the body in surprisingly high concentrations.
We’re talking levels that equal potassium, glucose and cholesterol - which should give you some idea of how important it is, especially considering the sheer work or metabolic activity that goes in to creating it. (1)
Working at a cellular level to keep you healthy by supporting your immune system, this powerful antioxidant tackles oxidative stress and neutralizes free radicals that could otherwise damage cells and organs.
Low levels of glutathione have been connected to an increased risk of diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Maintaining optimal levels in our tissues, therefore, is believed to be an important element in keeping us healthy. (2, 3)
Given its importance - and the fact that age, stress etc… can damage its absorption and synthesis - it’s not surprising that a whole supplement industry has built around it.
You can find glutathione supplements and IV therapy which promise to support a healthy immune system, boost energy, improve skin health and provide anti-aging benefits, among other things.
But what form is best? Specifically as the topic of this article, what are the potential uses and benefits of liposomal glutathione?
Types of Glutathione
I mentioned above that glutathione is available in many different forms. These include IV therapy and injections, nebulisers, oral supplementation with glutathione capsules, topical creams, sublingual (under the tongue), and liposomal glutathione. All of these are considered types of glutathione supplement.
All vary in how bioavailable they are - or, simply put, how well the body absorbs them.
Orally administered glutathione, such as capsules and tablets, is typically poorly absorbed. That’s mainly because the GGT enzyme in the intestinal tract degrades it before it can be used. In addition, it cannot enter cells intact and must first metabolize to L-cystine before it can be absorbed.
Intravenous glutathione therapy and injections are absorbed the best - BUT the FDA has never officially approved glutathione injections for any use. (They can be legally prescribed by a doctor, however). But uncontrolled use risks severe allergic reactions and liver damage.
Inhaled glutathione is another method, delivering glutathione directly into the lungs. It is sometimes used for respiratory conditions, but may cause side effects such as asthma attacks.
Seek Professional Guidance
When taking glutathione in any form, it is important to seek medical guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Given the absorption and health risks above, there was a need for an improved version of glutathione… and that’s where liposomal glutathione comes in. (4, 5)
What is Liposomal Glutathione?
It’s a version of glutathione that is encapsulated in tiny fat-like bubbles called liposomes. These are made from naturally derived lipids which are typically well absorbed by the body, carrying the glutathione to where it needs to go.
Often sold as soft gel capsules or oral liquid, they bypass the digestive issues associated with oral glutathione supplementation, helping to increase its absorption.
Studies have proven its success.
Study Results
In a one-month trial of liposomal glutathione (GSH), levels of glutathione markers increased significantly after just two weeks, by up to 40% in blood and 28% in plasma. These were accompanied by reductions in signs of oxidative stress. Beneficial immune function also increased. (6)
Taking liposomal glutathione is generally considered safe for most people, but some individuals may experience mild digestive issues or detox symptoms.
Liposomal Glutathione Uses and Benefits
As a Powerful Antioxidant
Oxidative stress in the body – caused by an imbalance of free radicals and the antioxidants to fight them – is a huge determining factor in our health. It really cannot be overestimated.
Oxidative stress caused by factors such as environmental toxins, physical or emotional stress, strenuous exercise, and illness can lead to tissue damage, DNA damage, inflammation, neuro-degeneration and the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis, stroke, cardiovascular disease, and more. (7)
Chronic inflammation is closely linked to oxidative stress and plays a significant role in the progression of these diseases, worsening symptoms and contributing to ongoing tissue damage.
As the master antioxidant, glutathione can help to manage oxidative stress. It does this by:
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Directly neutralizing free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
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Helping other antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E to continue their antioxidant functions. (8)
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Aiding Cellular Redox Homeostasis – helping cells to keep a healthy balance between free radicals and antioxidants. (9)
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Helping cells to detox of harmful substances. (10)
Studies have shown that reductions in oxidative stress after glutathione supplementation are often measured by improvements in oxidative stress markers, which reflect changes in cellular redox status.
Glutathione and Brain Health
The brain is vulnerable to oxidative stress due to its oxygen consumption and high metabolic rate. Oxidative stress in the brain can lead to aging and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
While poor diet, environmental toxins, stress and certain medications can increase this oxidative stress, physical activity and antioxidants may reduce it. Which is where liposomal glutathione may come in.
Glutathione plays a key role in supporting cognitive function by reducing oxidative stress, which may help maintain mental clarity and overall brain performance. By reducing oxidative damage in the nervous system, glutathione may help protect against neurological disorders and support neural health.
While standard oral glutathione struggles to cross the blood-brain barrier, certain forms of liposomal glutathione have been shown to be able to do this - delivering powerful antioxidant support direct to the brain. (11)
Additionally, glutathione supports mitochondrial function, which is essential for energy production and optimal brain health.
To Strengthen Immune Function
Glutathione’s ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation already helps the immune system, but its benefits go even further. For instance, glutathione:
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Supports T-cell production, growth and function. These cells are a crucial part of the adaptive immune system, important for recognizing and fighting specific pathogens. A glutathione deficiency interrupts this T-cell function.
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Stimulates Natural Killer (NK) cells, crucial for the innate immune system (offering a broad non-specific defense against pathogens) and enhances nk cell cytotoxicity.
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Enhances cytokine synthesis and control - allowing the immune system’s communication network to operate effectively.
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Provides a balanced immune response, fighting pathogens without triggering inflammation.
Glutathione supplementation has also been shown to improve immune function markers, such as increasing NK cell activity and supporting lymphocyte proliferation, which are important for a robust immune response. (12-15)
Arthritis
Glutathione has been researched for a potential role in managing autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, by modulating immune regulation and reducing chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Its antioxidant properties may help control the oxidative stress that contributes to the progression of these conditions. (16)
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is another example of a condition involving immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation, where glutathione may be beneficial in supporting immune health and reducing oxidative stress. Studies show that people with Lyme disease have lower levels of glutathione. (17)
Best Supplement for Immune Health
There's no doubt that glutathione is an important antioxidant in the body to enhance health and wellness, but here's where it gets a little tricky.
To Be Aware
While there have been numerous studies carried out on glutathione, not many of them focus on liposomal glutathione in particular. Likely because it's still an emerging field of research.
So far, trials involve a small number of participants and effectiveness tends to rely heavily on the quality of encapsulation. After all, it's still standard glutathione inside.
The results seem promising certainly, but what if you'd prefer more of a sure thing?
That's why we have another suggestion for you: Setria Glutathione, a patented form of glutathione that has been shown to be highly bioavailable. Please forgive me if I take a little segue. I think you'll appreciate it.
About Setria Glutathione
Setria Glutathione is a patented high-quality form of reduced glutathione, the most bioavailable form of glutathione. It has been designed to be highly bioavailable, avoiding the absorption issues other oral supplements have.
Studies prove it works. A six-month trial by Penn State University proved that supplementation with Setria Glutathione raised levels of glutathione in blood, cells, lymphocytes and more after 1, 3 and 6 months.
As well as the above, the clinical trial improved the ability of NK cells to kill their target two-fold, demonstrating a reduction in oxidative stress as well.
The findings led the study authors to conclude that daily glutathione supplements like Setria Glutathione effectively increased body stores of the antioxidant. (18)
Where Can I Find Setria Glutathione?
I'm glad you asked. You can find Setria Glutathione in our top quality supplement, Performance Lab Immune. Immune contains a generous 250mg of Setria Glutathione, alongside other ingredients chosen for their influence on immunity, such as:
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LC-Plasma (Immuse™),a science backed probiotic, proven to activate 5 different types of immune cells. Backed by seven clinical trials.
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Zinc
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Liposomal Vitamin D3
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Vitamin C
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Selenium
Together, Performance Lab Immune offers targeted ingredients for fast-acting defense and seasonal protection.
Add a Quality Multivitamin
Adding a quality multivitamin to your daily regime like Performance Lab NutriGenesis Multi can also help boost immune support. Selenium, zinc, and vitamins B, C and E - all included in NutriGenesis Multi - help the body to produce more of its own glutathione.
In addition, you'll benefit from more than 20 vitamins and minerals in highly bioavailable formats.
There are targeted formulas for men or women.
The only multi I’ve used and noticed more energy and better overall wellbeing!Jerrold N
So, now that we know about quality alternatives, let's jump back to the uses and benefits of liposomal glutathione... (All of which, of course, also apply to Setria Glutathione).
Glutathione May Help to Prevent Insulin Resistance
We can’t live without insulin - it’s the key that allows glucose into our cells, making it available for energy. Helping to fuel the body.
Insulin resistance is when your cells don’t respond to insulin in the way they should, in essence you are desensitized to it.
That can lead to a whole host of potential health issues down the line, from type 2 diabetes, obesity, PCOS, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease and more. Peripheral artery disease is also a potential complication of insulin resistance and diabetes, as it can impair circulation and mobility.
Studies have shown that people with insulin resistance have altered glutathione metabolism, in particular low levels of glutathione. This, in turn, is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. It makes sense, therefore, that supplementing with glutathione may help to boost your levels and avoid insulin resistance and associated consequences. (19, 20)
Studies support this theory.
In a clinical trial of people with Type 2 Diabetes, a group known to be deficient in glutathione, liposomal glutathione was given for three months. After three months, levels of oxidative stress fell and depletion of glutathione was prevented.
Supplementation also helped to modulate various cytokine levels (the chemical messengers of the immune system). (21)
Healthy Aging and Skin Health
As well as a proven support for immune health, glutathione has been lauded as an anti-aging and skin wonder supplement.
However, rather than claim it has anti-aging benefits, it’s probably more accurate to say that it aids healthy aging. Glutathione levels fall as we age, meaning we’re more vulnerable to cell damage and age-related diseases. Toxin exposure can accelerate aging and increase the need for antioxidants like glutathione.
Maintaining healthy levels helps to support immune function, DNA repair, detoxification and helps fight further oxidative damage - all of which is crucial for healthy aging.
Glutathione has also been promoted as a skin brightening product - helping to reduce dullness, dark skin spots, and discoloration.
Studies do seem to prove that it may work as advertised, though oral and topical supplementation is erratic and needs consistent application. At least one study, however, did note that it had the potential to improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
The digestive system also plays a key role in detoxification by eliminating toxins from the body, which supports overall skin health. (22)
Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular health is at the heart of overall wellness, and glutathione may play a pivotal role in keeping your heart and blood vessels in top shape.
As a powerful antioxidant, glutathione may help reduce oxidative stress, a major factor in the development of cardiovascular disease. When oxidative stress is left unchecked, it can lead to the formation of harmful substances that damage blood vessels, contributing to conditions like atherosclerosis and high blood pressure.
Research shows that glutathione deficiency can impact cardiovascular health and more, and glutathione is being investigated as a potential protection against similar disease. More research into its ability to protect healthy cells is welcome.
A diet rich in amino acids, especially those found in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, can further support your body’s natural glutathione production. (23)
Liver Health
Your liver is your body’s main detox powerhouse, responsible for filtering out toxins, supporting metabolism, and producing energy. Glutathione is absolutely essential for optimal liver function, with liver cells containing some of the highest concentrations of this antioxidant in the human body. (24)
This highlights just how critical glutathione is for maintaining liver health and resilience.
Glutathione is also important in protecting against liver failure, especially in the context of metabolic diseases where oxidative stress can contribute to severe liver damage.
Again glutathione supplementation may benefit the liver by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, two key contributors to liver disease, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. (25)
By increasing glutathione levels in liver cells, you potentially help your liver neutralize environmental toxins and other harmful substances before they can cause damage. This not only supports liver detoxification pathways but also helps maintain overall liver function. (26)
As always, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have existing liver concerns or are taking other medications.
Take Home Thoughts
Who would have thought that a combination of humble amino acids could create such a potent antioxidant as glutathione?
Associated with reducing oxidative stress, supporting immune function and even promoting healthy aging. Not to forget its implications in brain health, skin health, and liver function. Glutathione protects cells, plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular energy production and helps to reduce fatigue.
When it comes to bioavailability, liposomal glutathione offers a lot of promise that we hope will be proven in the future. Meanwhile, Setria Glutathione delivers now.
For that reason, if you want a solid proven immune support, we'd recommend Performance Lab Immune with Setria Glutathione.
References
- Pizzorno, J. (2014). Glutathione!. Integrative Medicine (Encinitas, Calif.), 13(1), 8–12.
- Townsend, D. M., Tew, K. D., & Tapiero, H. (2003). The importance of glutathione in human disease. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 57(3–4), 145–155.
- Julius, M., Lang, C. A., Gleiberman, L., Harburg, E., DiFranceisco, W., & Schork, A. (1994). Glutathione and morbidity in a community-based sample of elderly. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology, 47(9), 1021–1026.
- Alzahrani, T. F., Alotaibi, S. M., Alzahrani, A. A., Alzahrani, A. F., Alturki, L. E., Alshammari, M. M., Alharbi, R. A., Alanazi, S. I., Alshammari, W. Z., & Algarni, A. S. (2025). Exploring the safety and efficacy of glutathione supplementation for skin lightening: A narrative review. Cureus, 17(1), e78045.
- Dröge, W., & Breitkreutz, R. (2000). Glutathione and immune function. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 59(4), 595–600.
- Sinha, R., Sinha, I., Calcagnotto, A., Trushin, N., Haley, J. S., Schell, T. D., & Richie, J. P., Jr. (2018). Oral supplementation with liposomal glutathione elevates body stores of glutathione and markers of immune function. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 72(1), 105–111.
- Uttara, B., Singh, A. V., Zamboni, P., & Mahajan, R. T. (2009). Oxidative stress and neurodegenerative diseases: a review of upstream and downstream antioxidant therapeutic options. Current Neuropharmacology, 7(1), 65–74. https://doi.org/10.2174/157015909787602823
- Biswas, P., Dellanoce, C., Vezzoli, A., Mrakic-Sposta, S., Malnati, M., Beretta, A., & Accinni, R. (2020). Antioxidant activity with increased endogenous levels of vitamin C, E, and A following dietary supplementation with a combination of glutathione and resveratrol precursors. Nutrients, 12(11), 3224.
- Le Gal, K., Schmidt, E. E., & Sayin, V. I. (2021). Cellular redox homeostasis. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 10(9), 1377. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10091377
- Hayes, J. D., & McLellan, L. I. (1999). Glutathione and glutathione-dependent enzymes represent a co-ordinately regulated defence against oxidative stress. Free Radical Research, 31(4), 273–300. https://doi.org/10.1080/10715769900300851
- Reginald-Opara, J. N., Tang, M., Svirskis, D., Chamley, L., & Wu, Z. (2022). The role of glutathione conjugation on the transcellular transport process of PEGylated liposomes across the blood-brain barrier. International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 626, 122152.
- Allen, M., Bailey, C., Cahatol, I., Dodge, L., Yim, J., Kassissa, C., … Venketaraman, V. (2015). Mechanisms of control of Mycobacterium tuberculosis by NK cells: Role of glutathione. Frontiers in Immunology, 6, 508. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2015.00508
- Perricone, C., De Carolis, C., & Perricone, R. (2009). Glutathione: A key player in autoimmunity. Autoimmunity Reviews, 8(8), 697–701.
- Lin, N., Erdos, T., Louie, C., Desai, R., Lin, N., Ayzenberg, G., & Venketaraman, V. (2024). The role of glutathione in the management of cell-mediated immune responses in individuals with HIV. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(5), 2952.
- Abnousian, A., Vasquez, J., Sasaninia, K., Kelley, M., & Venketaraman, V. (2023). Glutathione modulates efficacious changes in the immune response against tuberculosis. Biomedicines, 11(5), 1340.
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- Kerstholt, M., Vrijmoeth, H., Lachmandas, E., Oosting, M., Lupse, M., Flonta, M., Dinarello, C. A., Netea, M. G., & Joosten, L. A. B. (2018). Role of glutathione metabolism in host defense against Borrelia burgdorferi infection. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 115(10), E2320–E2328. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1720833115
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