One question we have encountered with growing frequency is, “Is glutathione linked to depression?” The short answer is yes. Glutathione is a versatile antioxidant that helps with many vital processes within the body, including its ability to reduce oxidative stress. In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at glutathione’s function and discuss the relationship between free radicals, oxidative stress, and depression.
If you are suffering from depression or another psychological or mood disorder, help is available. At Aspire Regenerative, we are proud to offer glutathione IV drip therapy as well as other innovative treatments that reduce the symptoms of depression.
What Is Glutathione?
Glutathione is an antioxidant that is naturally produced by the liver. It is also found in an assortment of fungi, fruits, vegetables, and animal tissues. Glutathione is a tripeptide comprised of three amino acids — glutamine, glycine, and cysteine.
What Are the Benefits of Glutathione and How Does It Affect the Body?
Glutathione is often referred to as the “master detoxifier” because of its powerful ability to reduce oxidative stress within the body. Oxidative stress has been linked to a myriad of serious ailments and disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, certain types of cancer, high blood pressure, stroke, depression, and more. This alone makes glutathione an essential component in maintaining a person’s overall health and well-being. This isn’t the only thing glutathione can do, though. Some other functions that glutathione plays a role in include:
- Boosting the immune system
- Maintaining and repairing DNA
- Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Improving skin elasticity
- Transporting heavy metals out of the brain
- Regulating cellular proliferation and cell death (apoptosis)
- Maintaining enzymatic function
- Regenerating nutrients (including vitamins C and E)
- Reducing chest congestion
- Improving insulin resistance
What Causes Low Levels of Glutathione?
Many factors affect glutathione production within the body. Some occur naturally and are unavoidable, while others are a result of lifestyle choices. Some factors and processes that can lead to low levels of glutathione include:
- Aging
- Exposure to Environmental Toxins
- Light Pollution
- Poor Nutrition
- Intense Physical Exertion
- Stress
- Infection
- Compromised Immune System Function
- Certain Diseases
- Type II Diabetes
Is Glutathione Linked to Depression?
Scientists have found a strong connection between glutathione deficiency and a range of mental health concerns, including depression. Oxidative stress is believed to be one cause of major depression, and one of glutathione’s major jobs within the human body is to decrease oxidative stress. Glutathione neutralizes free radicals, which in turn helps reduce chronic inflammation and prevent cell damage. Without healthy levels of glutathione, oxidative stress can build and possibly lead to depression or other mental disorders.
Studies have found that low levels of glutathione can be a marker of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), even in the early stages of onset. Low levels of glutathione have also been associated with other mood disorders, including bipolar disorder. One study’s post-mortem analysis of the prefrontal cortex proved there is a correlation between low levels of glutathione and MDD, as well as a correlation between low levels of glutathione and schizophrenia.
What Can You Do If You Have Low Levels of Glutathione?
While there are oral supplements available, studies show this method of administering glutathione is ineffective. As is the case with any supplement that is taken by mouth, the nutrients must pass through the gastrointestinal tract and are therefore broken down before they can be transported to the cells that need them. This greatly reduces the amount of vital nutrients that can be used by the body. In the case of oral glutathione supplements, too much is broken down before it reaches the bloodstream — and in the case of depression, before it can reach the brain.
Fortunately, there are more effective options available to replenish glutathione levels and restore balance within the body. One of those which is now highly sought after is glutathione IV drip therapy.
What Is Glutathione IV Drip Therapy?
Glutathione IV drip therapy is a method of administering the antioxidant glutathione directly into the bloodstream so that it reaches the cells that need it most, including brain cells. Glutathione IV drip therapy is similar to other intravenous therapies. A patient is comfortably seated and a small needle is placed in the arm. Treatment sessions last between 15 to 20 minutes, during which time a patient can read, talk on the phone, work on a laptop, or watch TV.
Once the full dose has been administered, the needle is removed, the insertion point is cleaned, and a small pressure bandage is applied. Patients can return to their normal activities and resume their full work schedule immediately after treatment. The total number of treatments required and the frequency of sessions is determined by the doctor based on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s unique medical history.
If you suffer from depression or anxiety disorder and are interested in learning more about glutathione IV drip therapy in San Diego, book a consultation at Aspire Regenerative. Our doctors can provide in-depth information regarding this and other innovative therapies that may help alleviate mood disorders symptoms and help you achieve your health and wellness goals.
