A powerful antioxidant found in the body, glutathione plays a key role in nutrient metabolism, the regulation of cellular events and the proper functioning of the immune system.

Glutatione is made up from the combination of the amino acids cysteine, glutamate and glycine. Working together they will also play a role in DNA synthesis and repair, making this antioxidant essential for life.

It's known for its ability to help the body cells fight the damage that is caused from the free radical hydrogen peroxide as well as helping other antioxidants work effectively. For those who have low levels in their brain, Parkinson's disease is sometimes seen so it may also be effective in preventing this condition.

You'll mostly find this antioxidant in foods such as fruits, vegetables and meat so ensuring you are eating plenty of fresh foods in your diet is the best way to meet your needs. Cinnamon and cardamom also have a compound that can help to restore healthy levels of this antioxidant in the body so it would be beneficial to try adding these herbs to your meals whenever possible.

The downside to taking this antioxidant in supplemental form is that currently researchers are unaware how well it is absorbed and used by the body so while you think you may be getting you requirements, you may actually not be. If you really want to take it in supplemental form though, you might also consider taking acetylcysteine, methyl donars, alpha lipoic acid as well as vitamin B12 along with it. These appear to help raise the tissue levels of the antioxidant.