Unsurprisingly, many women who enter perimenopause and menopause find that managing the various physical and hormonal changes can be challenging. One key element that offers significant health benefits during this time is glutathione, known as the “master antioxidant.”
Let’s take a look at what makes glutathione essential and how it can be effectively incorporated into a midlife wellness routine, as discussed by Dallas Nutritionist Dr. Betty Murray and Naturopathic Physician Dr. Gina Nick in the Menopause Mastery podcast.
What Is Glutathione?
A critical and potent antioxidant, glutathione is composed of three amino acids: glutamic acid, glycine, and cysteine. It plays a major role in detoxifying the body by binding to toxins in the liver and converting them into substances that can be safely excreted. Known as the body’s primary defense against oxidative stress, glutathione is continually recycled in our system to fight off damage from toxins and free radicals.
As we age, however, maintaining adequate levels of the antioxidant becomes increasingly important; that’s especially the case during midlife, when our body’s detox capabilities may begin to wane.
The Best Ways to Supplement
While glutathione is essential, not all supplements are equally effective due to bioavailability issues. The oral form is often ineffective because it oxidizes before it can be absorbed. Some premium brands offer supplements with better absorption rates, but they can be expensive.
Other, more effective methods of taking glutathione include:
- Liposomal: This oral form improves absorption but may have an unpleasant taste.
- Nebulized: This is ideal for lung-related conditions but, like liposomal glutathione, has a strong taste.
- IV and Intramuscular Injections: These methods deliver glutathione directly into the bloodstream, but their effects are short-lived as the antioxidant is quickly excreted.
- Topical Creams: These vary widely in effectiveness depending on the formulation.
Dr. Gina Nick’s Innovative Approach
Dr. Nick developed a unique formula to address some of the challenges with traditional glutathione supplements. Her formula, which includes magnesium glycinate, zinc, vitamin D3, and vitamin C, not only improves the taste by incorporating glycine but also boosts glutathione production and provides additional immune support.
Her products come in different forms:
Pixie Sticks: Convenient, tasty, and easy to take at any time.
Capsules: Best taken before bed to work in harmony with the body’s natural glutathione production during sleep.
For those who are new to supplementation or have sensitivities, Dr. Nick recommends starting with a lower dose, such as the children’s formula, and gradually increasing it.
Why Midlife Women Need This Antioxidant
Glutathione offers a wide range of health benefits, making it especially valuable for women in midlife. Regular supplementation can:
- Support Detoxification: Helps manage exposure to environmental toxins.
- Improve Sleep: Particularly helpful for addressing insomnia, a common issue during menopause.
- Boost Cognitive Function: Reduces brain fog and improves focus.
- Enhance Immune Support: Protects against viruses, mold, and bacteria.
- Aid Recovery and Energy: Supports athletic recovery and overall physical stamina.
- Reduce Inflammation: Helps manage chronic inflammation, a frequent concern for midlife women.
Integrating Glutathione With Hormone Therapy
Balancing glutathione supplementation with hormone therapy can help women more effectively manage symptoms like hot flashes, low sex drive, insomnia, and low energy. Dr. Betty Murray highlights the importance of integrating detox strategies with hormone management to optimize outcomes for women during this phase of life.
Custom Programs for Women
Dr. Nick has created specialized programs that focus on balancing hormones, detoxification, and improving overall health. Her 21-day purification program combines meal replacement shakes, capsules, and glutathione supplements, along with an elimination diet that emphasizes hydration, vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins.
Boost Your Wellness Today
If you’re ready to begin incorporating glutathione into your wellness routine, take advantage of our special 15% discount on glutathione supplements today. Stay tuned for more episodes of the Menopause Mastery podcast, and please share and rate our show for more insights on navigating midlife with greater confidence and vitality!