< previous page | page_31 | next page >
Page 31
| Some of the best cell-protective agents we have are certain phytonutrients found in the food and spices we eat, such as the carotenoids in carrots, saffron, squash, turnips, pink grapefruit, and all deep orange or dark green leafy vegetables. Turmeric, one of the most widely used spices in Asia, contains curcumin, another excellent cell-protective agent. The cells themselves also manufacture enzymes and compounds that offer excellent protection against free radical assaults. |
| The Importance of Glutathione |
| Glutathione is a primary molecule responsible for maintaining normal cellular metabolism, cell protection, and regulation. In its reduced form, glutathione is vitally involved in many cellular functions, such as antioxidation of reactive oxygen species and free radicals, detoxification of xenobiotics, and maintenance of the reduced biochemical state that characterizes healthy cells. In addition, it plays an essential role in DNA synthesis and repair, synthesis of protein, immune function, leukotriene and prostaglandin metabolism, and regulation of cellular proliferation. 12 |
| Glutathione is a sulfur-containing tripeptide composed of glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. In human cells, it is the most abundant nonprotein thiol. Glutathione exists in both a reduced state and an oxidized state (glutathione disulfide), but it is in the reduced state that just about all the vital functions of glutathione are carried out. |
| Studies have shown that without adequate levels of glutathione, many unwelcome conditions can occur, including premature aging, oxidative stress, exposure to toxins, and many chronic and degenerative disorders. |
| The dark brown spots that form on skin as we get older (sometimes referred to as liver spots) are believed to be related to low levels of glutathione, which can cause one to be prone to basal cell carcinoma, the most common and least dangerous form of skin cancer. The following supplements would protect those who are prone to this condition: Beta-Plex, lipoic acid, vitamins E and C, small amounts of zinc and selenium, grape seed extract, turmeric, and green tea. |
| In addition, a number of pathologic conditions, including peripheral neuropathies, cerebrospinal degeneration, Parkinson's disease, myopathies, macular degeneration, hemolytic anemia, AIDS, and several types of cancer, have been associated with decreased intracellular levels of reduced glutathione. |
< previous page | page_31 | next page >

If you like this book, buy it!