Glutathione, also known as GSH, is a molecule found naturally in your body. It is produced by the liver and nerve cells in the central nervous system. Glutathione is made up of three amino acids: L-cysteine, glycine, and L-glutamate.

Proponents claim that glutathione supplements can help treat and prevent a number of health conditions, from heart disease to Alzheimer's disease.

This article reviews what GSH is, what it does, and what health benefits it may have.

What Is GSH?

Glutathione is an antioxidant, a molecule that helps fight free radicals.

Free radicals are unstable molecules that form in response to factors like your diet and the environment. When more free radicals exist than antioxidants, oxidative cell damage occurs. This can lead to inflammation and a variety of health issues ranging from high blood pressure and diabetes to Alzheimer's disease and more.

Antioxidants are critical as they help keep things in healthy balance. Your body makes some antioxidants, but others comes from external sources like your diet or supplements like GSH.

In addition to being an antioxidant, GSH also plays a part in your body's:

Metabolism of toxins and cancer-causing substances

Natural creation and repair of DNA

Production of protein and prostaglandin, a compound with hormone-like effects

Activation of enzymes

Glutathione also helps with the breakdown of nutrients and the regulation of important body processes, such as the immune response.

What Is Glutathione Used For?

Glutathione is purported to reverse the aging process, prevent cancer, and preserve memory. It is also said to protect against a wide range of health problems, including:

Hardened arteries (atherosclerosis)

Lyme disease

Alzheimer's disease

Chronic fatigue syndrome

Colitis

High cholesterol

Osteoarthritis

Asthma

Cataracts

Diabetes

Glaucoma

Heart disease

Hepatitis

Liver disease

Parkinson's disease

Alcohol use disorder

Can Glutathione Help Autism?

A small study published in Medical Science Monitor in 2011 shows a connection between low glutathione levels and autism spectrum disorders.

For the study, 26 children ages 3 to 13 with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis were assigned to eight weeks of treatment. They received either oral glutathione supplements or a glutathione-containing skin lotion.

Results showed that glutathione supplements helped increase participants' glutathione levels to various degrees. The study's authors call for further research to explore the effects of using glutathione supplements for those with autism spectrum disorders.

Possible Side Effects

Due to a lack of research, little is known about the side effects of using glutathione supplements.

However, there's some concern that the use of glutathione supplements may cause cramping and bloating. In addition, some people may experience allergic reactions to glutathione supplements, such as a rash.