If you have never heard of glutathione, you are in for a treat 🤓


It’s funny to me, that I often get asked what glutathione does WHILE I am administering it to a patient. 


You would think they would want to know what it does BEFORE signing up to have it pushed into their veins, but, maybe y’all aren’t as nerdy as me when it comes to antioxidants! 


Either way, I’m happy to educate you on this amazing nutrient, as well as announce that we are NOW OFFERING GLUTATHIONE PUSH IVS AT ELEVATE FUNCTIONAL HEALTH!


What is it?

Glutathione is the main antioxidant in our bodies. It works both inside and outside of our cells, versus the other antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E which work outside of cells, scavenging free radicals.


What is it used for?

Beside scavenging free radicals and recycling the other antioxidants, glutathione is needed for phase 2 liver detoxification and also plays a very important role in immune function, specifically the specialized immune cells of the brain, called glial cells.


Because of these uses, glutathione treatments can be used to support the immune system in a preventative way, or to treat an acute illness, as well as for post-concussion support.


What are the results of glutathione treatments?

  1.  Because glutathione is such a powerful antioxidant, it is most popularly used as a skin brightening agent - evening out skin tone and complexion.
  2. I have successfully used glutathione to bring down patients’ liver enzymes when elevated on blood work. 
  3. Immediate effects of glutathione treatments are often elevated energy, better sleep and improved mood.


Where else can I get glutathione from?

Glutathione is a molecule that is made endogenously (in our bodies). However, our bodies cannot make it fast enough to meet the supply demands imparted due to our modern lives. We are constantly exposed to toxins that our liver must detoxify - using up our glutathione. We do require more in order to thrive. 


We can do this through oral supplementation, however, glutathione is poorly absorbed orally (1-5%), unless it is in a liposomal form, in which case the absorption goes up slightly, but is still not 100% absorption as is the case for direct IV administration.


What does a glutathione push IV appointment look like?

Glutathione push IV appointments are quick, 20-minute appointments in which we check in with you, take your vitals, and then administer a combination of normal saline, glutathione and vitamin C through one of the veins in your arm, using a small butterfly needle.


Is this treatment painful?

Because glutathione is a more viscous solution, it can feel like pressure or burning if it is being administered too quickly. If this happens to you, simply let your practitioner know and they will administer the fluid more slowly. Applying heat and performing self-massage also helps mitigate any discomfort felt during this procedure.


How many treatments are needed?

Depending on what we are trying to achieve, anywhere from 4-10 treatments may be needed. These are typically spaced 1-2 weeks apart.


If you're curious about whether or not thing treatment may be right for you, book in with one of our naturopathic doctors at Elevate Functional Health to discuss your case! Or if you have any other questions about this amazing, potent antioxidant, leave it in the comment section below.