S-Acetyl L Glutathione vs. Liposomal Glutathione: Which Reigns Supreme? | Optimal Circadian Health

S-Acetyl L Glutathione vs. Liposomal Glutathione: Which Reigns Supreme?

Posted by on May 9, 2023 in Supplements

S-Acetyl L Glutathione vs. Liposomal Glutathione: Which Reigns Supreme?

Glutathione, often dubbed the “master antioxidant,” plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. 

 

But, how do you know which one is the most effective? 

 

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of S-Acetyl L Glutathione and liposomal glutathione, comparing their properties, benefits, and bioavailability. 

 

Major questions answered in this article:

  • What is S-Acetyl L Glutathione, and what are its health benefits?
  • What is liposomal glutathione, and how does it promote well-being?
  • How do S-Acetyl L Glutathione and liposomal glutathione compare in terms of bioavailability and absorption?
  • What factors should you consider when choosing between these two supplement forms?
  • What does recent research say about the efficacy of S-Acetyl L Glutathione and liposomal glutathione?

 

And, of course, “Do you even need supplemental glutathione?”

 

Let’s dive in!

Glutathione Supplements Overview

Glutathione, a small yet mighty molecule, has taken the spotlight in the health and wellness world. 

Note, when we’re referring to “glutathione” this is technically “reduced glutathione”

Reduced glutathione is the basic form that is actually active in your body.

With its superhero-like abilities to fight off nasty villains in our bodies, it’s no wonder that it has been dubbed the “master antioxidant.”

Definition and Importance

Reduced glutathione is a tripeptide composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine (Wu et al., 2004). 

The glutathione molecule plays a crucial role in maintaining our bodies’ finely tuned balance, acting as a cellular guardian to protect us from the constant onslaught of oxidative stress and toxic compounds (Sies, 1999).

Produced naturally in our cells, glutathione is essential for numerous cellular processes, such as DNA synthesis and repair, protein synthesis, and enzyme activation (Lu, 2013).

The Master Antioxidant?

But it doesn’t stop there; this multitasking molecule also participates in immune system regulation and the recycling of other antioxidants, like vitamins C and E (Forman et al., 2009). 

In fact, reduced glutathione is up to 5,000 times more effective than other antioxidants, such as vitamin C, at quenching free radicals (Pizzorno, 2014).

However, don’t be fooled by the trendiness of “master antioxidant” because this is not as simple as it seems…

Role as an Antioxidant and Detoxifying Agent

As a powerful antioxidant, glutathione wields its formidable powers to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS), those pesky free radicals that can cause damage to our cells and contribute to aging and various diseases (Rahman, 2007). 

By keeping ROS in check, glutathione helps to maintain the delicate balance between oxidation and antioxidation, ensuring that our cells stay healthy and vibrant (Sies, 2015).

In addition to its antioxidant prowess, glutathione is also an expert in the art of detoxification. Our bodies are constantly exposed to a barrage of toxins, both from our environment and as a byproduct of normal metabolic processes (Liska, 1998). 

Glutathione inside cells jumps into action, binding to these toxins and transforming them into less harmful compounds that can be safely eliminated (Ballatori et al., 2009). By acting as the body’s natural detoxifier, glutathione plays a vital role in maintaining our health and well-being.

Here’s some more specifics on where glutathione functions in your body

Immune system Health

Glutathione enhances immune cell function by promoting the appropriate proliferation, activation, and differentiation of immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages (Dröge & Breitkreutz, 2000).

It modulates inflammation by regulating the production of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) (Dröge & Breitkreutz, 2000).

Chronic diseases often have immune dysfunction. So, chronic disease management may benefit from glutathione use.

Liver detoxification

Glutathione supports healthy liver function and detoxification by neutralizing toxins, such as heavy metals (e.g., mercury, cadmium), drugs (e.g., acetaminophen), and environmental pollutants (e.g., polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) (Lu, 2013).

It also enhances the activity of detoxification enzymes, such as glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), which conjugate toxins to Glutathione, facilitating their elimination (Lu, 2013). Altogether, this would boost liver health.

Anti-aging effects

Healthy young people have been found to have higher glutathione levels than unhealthy elderly counterparts.

Glutathione offers anti-aging benefits and promotes healthy aging due to its potent antioxidant capacity, which protects cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation (Weschawalit et al., 2017).

  • Brain Health

    In particular, glutathione has been shown to support neuron health. In fact, some practitioners use it for those with Alzheimer’s disease as glutathione treats cognitive problems.

    It prevents the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which contribute to age-related diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders (Nagai et al., 2012).

    Glutathione supports skin health by inhibiting melanogenesis, reducing age spots, and improving overall skin tone (Weschawalit et al., 2017).

    That’s why people are so attracted to the idea of supplementing with glutathione (I’ll rip on that in a bit).

    However, you need to consider the different forms of glutathione to know which one is best for you.

Introduction to S-Acetyl Glutathione and liposomal glutathione

Even the most powerful heroes sometimes need a boost, and Glutathione is no exception. 

 

While our valiant tripeptide is crucial for maintaining cellular health, its Achilles’ heel lies in its limited bioavailability. 

 

In other words, orally ingested Glutathione struggles to reach the cells where it’s needed most, leaving them vulnerable to the nefarious effects of oxidative stress (Weschawalit et al., 2017). 

 

Enter S-Acetyl L Glutathione and Liposomal Glutathione – two innovative forms of our beloved antioxidant designed to overcome reduced glutathione’s bioavailability woes. With their unique properties, these dynamic derivatives swoop in to save the day, ensuring that Glutathione can reach its cellular targets and fulfill its destiny as the master antioxidant.

Development of alternative forms

Acetyl Glutathione: The Stealthy Sidekick

In the quest for enhanced bioavailability, scientists have turned to S-Acetyl L Glutathione, an acetylated form of Glutathione that has a stylish acetyl group on a sulfur atom acting like a superhero’s cape (Richman & Meister, 1975). 

 

Acetylated glutathione not only increases the stability and lipophilicity of Glutathione but also allows it to sneak past the cellular defenses and enter cells more efficiently (Cacciatore et al., 2010). 

 

Once inside, the acetyl group is removed, and the non-acetylated form of Glutathione springs into action, ready to neutralize harmful free radicals and detoxify rogue toxins.

Liposomal Glutathione: The Mighty Micronaut

The second member of our dynamic duo, Liposomal Glutathione, takes a different approach to tackle the bioavailability conundrum. 

 

Instead of using an acetylated glutathione structure, this form encases it within a minuscule, spherical structure called a liposome (Kidd, 2011). 

This liposome allows oral ingestion to be an effective avenue of administration.

 

These lipid-based vehicles not only protect Glutathione from degradation but also facilitate its passage across cell membranes (Viscovich et al., 2004). 

 

Once delivered to its destination, Glutathione disembarks from its liposomal vessel and gets down to the business of combating oxidative stress.

 

Now, let’s compare

 

In-Depth Comparison of S-Acetyl L Glutathione and Liposomal Glutathione

Let’s compare stability, uptake, price, and individual needs that would help you consider which one dietary supplement may be best for you.

Stability

  • As the acetyl group protects glutathione, it is more stable in the gastrointestinal tract (Wu et al., 2004). This increased stability keeps the glutathione molecule intact as it is absorbed and used by the body.
  • Liposomal Glutathione relies on liposomal encapsulation technology to enhance stability in the gastrointestinal tract. The liposomal encapsulation shields glutathione from degradation and improves its bioavailability (Kidd, 2011). However, it may not be as stable as S-Acetyl L Glutathione.

Cellular Uptake

  • While both S-Acetyl L Glutathione and Liposomal Glutathione display improved cellular uptake compared to regular glutathione, the specific degree of improvement between the two forms has not been well established in the literature.
  • S-Acetyl L Glutathione, which facilitates transport across cell membranes for efficient cellular uptake including the blood-brain barrier (Wu et al., 2004).
  • Liposomal Glutathione is encapsulated within liposomes, which merge with cell membranes and release glutathione into the cells (Akbarzadeh et al., 2013). The degree to which liposomal encapsulation improves cellular uptake relative to S-Acetyl L Glutathione is not known, but it is likely it crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently.

Price Comparison

Several oral glutathione supplements exist… I don’t have a preferred brand, this is just an overview

 

  • Prices for S-Acetyl L Glutathione and Liposomal Glutathione supplements can vary widely depending on the brand, quality, and quantity. On average, S-Acetyl L Glutathione supplements may range from $30 to $50 for a month’s supply, while Liposomal Glutathione supplements can range from $50 to $80 for a month’s supply.
  • The higher price of Liposomal Glutathione is due to the complexity and cost associated with liposomal encapsulation technology.

 

Overall, S-acetyl L glutathione wins the price comparison which is important because, quite simply, you could just ingest more S-acetyl L glutathione to overcome any of the benefits of its liposomal counterpart.

Individual Needs and Preferences

  • The choice between S-Acetyl L Glutathione and Liposomal Glutathione may depend on individual needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include:
    1. Tolerability: Some individuals may find one form of glutathione more tolerable than the other due to differences in formulation, taste, or potential side effects.
    2. Specific Health Conditions: Certain health conditions, such as chronic liver disease, neurodegenerative disorders, or autoimmune diseases, may influence the choice of glutathione form.
      • Liver issues do better with liposomal
      • Autoimmune issues do better with liposomal and n-acetyl cysteine (NAC)
      • Neurodegeneration does better with acetyl glutathione 
    3. Budget: As Liposomal Glutathione is generally more expensive than S-Acetyl L Glutathione, budget constraints may play a role in the decision-making process.
    4. Convenience: Some individuals may prefer acetyl glutathione vs liposomal due to ease of administration or dosage requirements.

Ultimately, the choice between S-Acetyl L Glutathione and Liposomal Glutathione should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into consideration individual needs, health conditions, and preferences.

Now, all that is glutathione doesn’t glitter.

 

I’ve been in your shoes grabbing for supplements, chemicals, and peptides trying to get my health back to 100%.

 

It’s a desperate scramble that brings us to articles like this, where we want some reassurance about a new silver bullet.

 

But, here’s the brutal truth.

 

Glutathione may help a bit, but it’s yet another band-aid.

 

That’s why the question is NOT “Should I go with acetyl glutathione or liposomal?”

 

You need to ask yourself “Why is my glutathione low in the first place?”

 

Why your Glutathione is Low

There are two main reasons.

 

First, you have rampant inflammation throughout your body that is depleting you of glutathione.

 

This inflammation is very likely due to environmental issues and a poor circadian rhythm (those are typically what we see in our clients).

 

For instance, healthy liver function requires a solid circadian rhythm. When your liver health isn’t great, it will use more glutathione and deplete you!

 

Another example is the dysregulation of your immune system health.

 

When your circadian rhythm is off, inflammation will go higher, and this triggers your immune system.

 

Then, yet again, you deplete yourself of glutathione.

Mitochondria and Glutathione

The other component is that poorly functioning mitochondria lead to a more free radical generation that leads to more inflammation.

 

And, poorly functioning mitochondria tie into the second cause of you needing glutathione…

 

The second big piece is that you have a reduced capacity to make your own glutathione 

 

And guess what helps you make glutathione?

 

Your mitochondria (Lu, 2013).

 

Healthy mitochondria in a healthy human body produce the glutathione levels you need to thrive.

 

So, if you don’t reverse those two issues above, then your body begins to make less glutathione by itself and that leads to you being dependent on a supplement for an essential human function.

How to Naturally Boost Your Glutathione

So, the question isn’t “Which glutathione” is best… 

 

The real question is “What do you need to know about your mitochondria?”

 

That’s why we made our masterclass that breaks these concepts down.

 

You can access it for free here: https://optimalcircadianhealth.com/class

 

Enjoy! Your health and glutathione levels will thank you!

 

Best,

Dylan Petkus, MD

Dr. Dylan Petkus

Written By: Dylan Petkus, MD, MPH, MS

Dr. Dylan Petkus is on a mission to help people overcome their health issues like sleep apnea so they are not limited by their condition or trapped by options that don’t provide full resolution.

He earned his Master’s of Science in Physiology at Pennsylvania State University where he was awarded a research fellowship and was a peer-reviewed published author. He went on to earn both his Master’s in Public Health and Medical Degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Thereafter, he specialized in Family Medicine to help patients on the front-line of chronic disease.

Having overcome his own health challenges, including sleep apnea,  he strives to help empower others to live fuller, healthier lives.

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