It's almost common knowledge these days that glutathione, the antioxidant that resides in every cell in our bodies, is chronically low in patients who have symptoms of Autistic Spectrum Disorder, ADD or ADHD.

Why is glutathione so important?

This is the major antioxidant system we have to counteract oxidative stress. When a brain neurological disorder is present, glutathione levels are usually below normal. Glutathione is the master antioxidant we have to counter the effects of aging and protect us from free radical damage and toxins from our environment and the toxic build up in our bodies.

Glutathione is an amazing substance that is made from glutamate, glycine, and cysteine. We cannot take glutathione itself with much result, but we must take the precursor amino acids by way of our diet or in a supplement to boost levels in our cells.

Did you know that asparagus is very high in glutathione? It is even promoted as an anticancer treatment, since it boosts glutathione levels in the body. Watermelon is another good food which is unusually high in glutathione. Maybe that's why my desert tortoise loves it so much.

So what other ways can we boost glutathione? Some novel approaches to boosting glutathione are on the horizon. But one common way is to supplement with Whey protein that provides the essential amino acids needed to build glutathione. Another popular way is to supplement with N-acetyl-cysteine, which converts into glutathione in the body.

A well balanced treatment protocol for Autism spectrum disorder and ADHD will consider boosting glutathione levels to promote detoxification and protect against free radicals.

So cook some asparagus tonight with your dinner, simmered in a little olive oil, maybe with some parmesan cheese on top…….a nice tasty way to start to build your antioxidant glutathione reserves!

Be well,
Dr. Lance