The lab experience you’re looking for, within a more complete clinical platform. Order, manage, and turn results into personalized plans in one seamless flow. Learn more
Glutathione, often called the body's "master antioxidant," is a powerful substance naturally made within our cells. It's made up of three important amino acids - glutamine, glycine, and cysteine. The main job of glutathione is to protect our cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals, which can lead to oxidative stress. It also helps to get rid of toxins and waste from our body. Additionally, glutathione supports our immune system, helping us fight off infections and illnesses. It's like our body's own superhero, constantly working to keep our cells healthy and working at their best.
If Your Levels Are High
Elevated glutathione levels might mean that your body is dealing with more oxidative stress or toxins than usual, so it's making extra amounts of this antioxidant to help protect your cells. This could be caused by a variety of factors, such as being exposed to pollution, eating a less-than-ideal diet, or taking certain medications like acetaminophen or chemotherapy drugs. It's also possible that an underlying health issue is prompting your body to produce more glutathione as a defense mechanism. While high glutathione levels aren't necessarily bad, since it shows your body is actively working to keep you healthy, it's important to be aware of what might be causing the increase.
Symptoms of High Levels
Symptoms of high levels of Glutathione are typically not noticeable, as this substance is part of your body's natural defense system. However, if the elevated levels are due to an underlying condition, you might experience symptoms related to that specific condition.
If Your Levels are Low
Low glutathione levels might mean that your body is dealing with more stress from harmful substances or toxins than usual. This could be due to things like not eating well, being stressed out, or being around harmful chemicals in your environment. Some medications, like certain painkillers or antibiotics, might also lower your glutathione levels. Additionally, certain health issues, such as long-term illnesses or problems with your body's metabolism, could play a role in reducing your glutathione levels. It's also worth noting that as we get older, our bodies naturally produce less glutathione, so lower levels might just be a part of the aging process.
Symptoms of Low Levels
Symptoms of low levels of Glutathione could include fatigue, frequent infections, brain fog, joint discomfort, and a weakened immune system.
The NutrEval® Plasma evaluates a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and other biomarkers to determine nutritional deficiencies and imbalances. This test cannot be ordered for patients under 2 years of age.
Micronutrient Test by SpectraCell Laboratories
Whole Blood
The SpectraCell Micronutrient Test analyzes over 30 vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to determine nutritional deficiencies. It also analyzes the performance and functional deficiencies of these micronutrients. This test is not recommended for patients under 12 years of age.
NutrEval® FMV by Genova Diagnostics
Whole Blood
Urine
Serum
The NutrEval® FMV evaluates a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and other biomarkers to determine nutritional deficiencies and imbalances. This test cannot be ordered for patients under two years of age.
Cellular Micronutrient Assay by Cell Science Systems
Whole Blood
The Cellular Micronutrient Assay measures the effect of micronutrients on a patient's immune function to identify nutrient insufficiencies. This test cannot be ordered for patients under 9 years of age.
Cellular Nutrition Assay by Cell Science Systems
Whole Blood
The Full Cellular Nutrition Assay combines the Cellular Micronutrient Assay and the Redox/Antioxidant Protection Assay to provide a personalized assessment of a patient's nutritional needs. This test cannot be ordered for patients under 16 years of age.