Glutathione IV with Vitamin C: Best Skin Whitening Procedure

Every day, the skin is exposed to the damaging effects of the environment pollutants, toxins, and radiation. This leads to the interference of the normal interaction of the body molecules. Aside from that, even the physiologic metabolic processes produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). The ROS generated by the metabolic activities leads to further cellular injury.

Glutathione, together with Vitamin C, is a powerful antioxidant. It aids in decreasing the damaging results brought about by environmental hazards. Also, it neutralizes the effects of the ROS in the body [1]. These two are best used in whitening the skin. Their combination causes a youthful glow. Furthermore, the Vitamin C added to the glutathione creates a longer-lasting effect [2].

Picture 1: IV injection administration of Glutathione with Vitamin C

Source:immune-health-solutions-for-you.com

What is Glutathione?

Glutathione is a substance in the body made from three amino acids, namely, glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid. This is known to be a detoxifying agent as well as an antioxidant.

According to Dr. Elson Haas, a nutritionist, the primary composition of Glutathione that plays a vital role in its antioxidant properties is cysteine.   Glutathione pairs up with two substances to accomplish its functions. First, the glutathione peroxidise. This enables the conversion of ROS to water molecules. Second, the glutathione S-transferase allows the attachment of glutathione to the toxic by-products of the body for excretion [1].

Other functions of Glutathione in the body include the following:

• Release of the free radicals and other toxic substances in the body
• Essential for cellular health and tissue repair
• Skin rejuvenation
• Regenerates the liver cells from the damages due to alcohol and fatty food intake
• Detoxification
• Improving the immune system
• Reduction of the production of melanin (substance responsible for pigmentation) [2, 3, 4]

What is Vitamin C?

Also known as ascorbic acid,  vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient responsible for various functions. It plays a vital role in the maintenance of antioxidants in the body which involves aiding the effects of glutathione and vitamin E.

It performs its functions by neutralizing the damaging effects of ROS. Then, it is oxidized to the form of dehydroascorbate. After it is recycled to dehydroascorbate, it is again converted to Vitamin C.  Vitamin is commonly found in food sources such as acerola cherries, citrus fruits, and rose hips [1].

Other vital roles played by vitamin C are:

• Reduction of the harmful effects caused by free radicals
• Regulation of collagen production
• Decreasing sunburn caused by Ultraviolet B radiation exposure [4]

Interaction of Glutathione and Vitamin C

In the review published in April 1994 by The Journal of Biological Chemistry, the interaction between Glutathione and Vitamin C is described as a partnership which aids in the body’s maintenance of antioxidants. These two help the body in getting rid of the harmful effects caused by toxic hydrogen peroxide and free radicals.

This process happens when the glutathione enables the recycling of dehydroascorbate to vitamin C. In return, vitamin C performs its role by storing the glutathione in the tissues.  However, they both have functions which are independent of one another. [1]

Together, Glutathione and Vitamin C are considered to be one of the most effective skin whitening products. They both decrease the production of melanin. As a result, this leads to lighter skin color. [2]

Best Route of Administration

According to medical professionals, glutathione is better absorbed if administered through intravenous injections. Aside from that, it is proven that it is more effective when given intravenously since 100 percent of it is readily absorbed by the system.

If taken orally, only 20 percent of it will be absorbed by the body because it is broken down by stomach acids. [2]

Recommended Dosage

Since glutathione is a non-essential nutrient, it is manufactured in the tissues of the body. However, if the body will be exposed to higher oxidative stress, this can lead to the depletion of glutathione levels. To resolve this, glutathione supplementation may be recommended at the dosage of 250 to 750 mg of cysteine everyday. Another option is to take 100 to 250 mg of reduced glutathione on a daily basis.

As for the case of Vitamin C, it is known to be an essential nutrient. The recommended dietary intake of this nutrient ranges from 40 mg (infants) to 120 mg (nursing mothers) daily. Some even take higher doses as tolerated. [1]

Side Effects of Glutathione with Vitamin C

IV glutathione injections are generally advised only for people who are 27 years of age and older [2]. The administration of glutathione and vitamin C through intravenous injections presents a small risk for infection at the injection site if not given properly and aseptically. Vitamin C supplementation may cause side effects such as diarrhea, indigestion, and nausea. [3]

Points to Consider

Glutathione IV injections with vitamin C have been proven to give lots of benefits to the body especially in the maintenance of body’s antioxidants. It is always recommended to seek advice from the doctor before receiving dosages of this substance. Always remember to have it administered by trained professionals in giving IV injections like the doctor or a registered nurse. This is to ensure safety and prevent possible risks like infection, heart disease, and stroke.

References:

1. http://www.livestrong.com/article/488070-l-glutathione-and-vitamin-c/

2. http://www.renewwellnessmedspa.com/glutathione.html

3. http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-glutathione-injection.htm

4. http://www.vietura.com/vitamin-c-and-glutathione-nutrients-for-healthy-summer-skin