The Effect of Glutathione Supplementation (L-Glutation, Vitamin C, Alpha Lipoic Acid, and Zinc) on Total Antioxidant Status (TAS) Level

Abstract

Introduction: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced continuously in our body as a result of biochemical reactions which may cause oxidative stress and various dysfunctions. Antioxidants are substances which are postulated to prevent or even overcome the adverse effects of free radicals. Glutathione is a type of antioxidant that is required for maintaining mitochondrial function, DNA health, improving immune function and providing anti-inflammatory effects. However, the benefit of glutathione as a health supplement in healthy individuals is yet to be elucidated. Method: a total of 30 healthy women was included in this double-blinded randomized controlled trial study. Subjects were randomly allocated into two groups receiving placebo and antioxidant capsule, respectively. One capsule of antioxidant contains 500 mg L-glutathione, 250 mg ascorbic acid, 50 mg alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), and 4 mg zinc which was given every day to the treatment group for 12 weeks. The total antioxidant serum (TAS) level before and after 12 weeks of treatment was examined using ELISA. Result: No significant TAS level difference was observed between both groups before and after treatment (p>0.05). In addition, there was also no significant difference in TAS level within the group before and after 12 weeks of treatment (p>0.05). No significant side effects were observed. Conclusion: This study shows that short term administration of antioxidant supplement containing glutathione, ascorbic acid, ALA, and zinc did not significantly affect the antioxidant level.