Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called “reduced glutathione?”
Reduced glutathione is simply the stable, active form required for good health. When glutathione is oxidized in the body, an enzyme called “glutathione reductase” helps return glutathione back into its antioxidant state. The normal functions of the body typically destabilize any antioxidant, but with glutathione, it is important to have a strong ratio of “reduced”–that is, active– glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG).
Why does glutathione require special formulation?
Oral glutathione does not survive oxidation during the digestive process unless it is specially formulated and protected. In fact, in clinical studies that compared Clinical Glutathione to unprotected oral glutathione, the unprotected form showed no ratio improvement or support of active levels of this antioxidant. That is why the special formulation and patented process unique to Clinical Glutathione is essential. Its revolutionary, slow-melt tablet allows the glutathione to provide optimal benefits without oxidizing. Even enteric coatings can’t protect glutathione properly, because stomach acid isn’t the problem–the glutathione will still be oxidized and add to the overall burden of free radicals in the body.
Why not just use N-acetylcysteine? Isn’t that a building block of glutathione?
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a building block of glutathione, but it is also dependent on the body’s ability to make glutathione, which varies greatly with age and health status. Trying to use NAC alone can’t guarantee that you’ll be able to support active glutathione levels or improve blood ratios of this critical antioxidant.
In just 11 days during a clinical study, Clinical Glutathione was shown to increase active glutathione in the bloodstream by 38 points, while unprotected glutathione actually reduced the active amount by 40 points. That’s a 78 point difference between the two groups!*
