For Health’s Sake: The Pros and Cons of Taking Glutathione Supplements

By | February 22, 2020

There are two types of people: those with fair skin and others with a dark complexion. Ironically, people with fair skin go to tanning salons or go to the beach to get some tan lines. On the other hand, a lot of people with darker skin complexion reach for whitening products. However, make sure to consult an allergist doctor first before using any skincare product.

With so many beauty products available, it can be overwhelming to choose which one will suit you best. Some products might be effective for certain users and yield positive results. However, there are others that might experience adverse effects when using a product. This is one reason why it is a good idea to seek advice from an allergy physician first.

The role of glutathione in our body

There is nothing wrong with dreaming of pinkish, whiter skin. No wonder there are a lot of whitening products available especially in many Asian and other countries. One of the most popular whitening products mostly in Asian countries nowadays is glutathione.

In these countries, glutathione usually comes in capsule, liquid, or via injectables. A lot of skincare products sold in these countries include glutathione in the ingredient list. Better yet, make sure to visit an allergist specialist first before using any whitening products. You might also have to undergo allergy testing to avoid adverse reactions when using any topical products.

Aside from its whitening effect, glutathione also boasts of its antioxidant and immune system strengthening benefits. Our liver naturally produces glutathione and comprises three major amino acids: L-glutamate, glycine, and L-cysteine. However, our glutathione levels decrease due to several factors such as stress, age, and poor eating habits.

The lack of glutathione can lead to health problems like cardiovascular disease or lung and liver issues among a few. According to one study, it can also weaken one’s immune system and even cause premature aging. That is why glutathione supplements can do wonders for your skin and your health in general.

Benefits of glutathione supplements

A 2014 report said that we need to maintain good glutathione levels as it is crucial to our health. The same report said that this natural body component plays an important role in improving our immune system and proper nutrient breakdown. Glutathione is also said to provide protection against several health issues like:

  • Diabetes
  • Asthma
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Hepatitis
  • High cholesterol levels

Aside from that, taking glutathione supplements can reverse the effects of aging. Likewise, it can lessen the risk of memory loss and even cancer. These are some noted health benefits of taking glutathione supplements. But before taking one, make sure to consult an allergist to prevent any adverse effects that might occur.

Are there possible side effects of taking glutathione supplements?

On the one hand, there are already several studies of the positive effects of taking glutathione supplements. However, there are also possible risks of using such. For one, some people experienced bloating and cramping after taking glutathione supplements. In the worst cases, it can cause allergic reactions as well.

It is also important to note that glutathione can also be found in certain foods such as meat, dairy, fruits, and vegetables. As also mentioned earlier, glutathione also comes in different forms including capsules, topical, or intravenous. For one thing, the FDA deems the oral forms as “generally safe”. However, IV glutathione forms may cause adverse effects such as:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Kidney or thyroid dysfunction
  • Skin rashes
  • Steven-Johnsons syndrome
  • Infection or other complications due to improper administration of IV glutathione drips

In the name of beauty and health

If you are planning to take glutathione supplements, you should inform an allergist doctor first. Other than that, here are some reminders in taking glutathione supplements or other health supplements in general.

  • Take caution when taking any supplements especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have existing allergies.
  • Never let kids especially those aged 5 and below take glutathione supplements. There is no established study yet about small children taking any related supplements.
  • Make sure that you don’t have liver disease as glutathione supplements can make your health condition worse.

There is nothing wrong with looking good as long as it won’t endanger your health. Make sure to take any health supplements that are FDA-approved. Likewise, you should consult an allergy physician in Germantown MD first before taking any health supplement.