A sulphur-containing compound that is one of the antioxidants (radical scavengers) and consists of the three vital amino acids cysteine, glutamic acid and glycine. Glutamic acid is an important "fuel" for the human brain and, as glutamine, promotes intelligence. Glutathione is found in fresh vegetables, fruit, cheese, fish and meat, for example. It is usually sufficiently absorbed during normal nutrition and is also found in the blood as a water-soluble antioxidant. As an oxidation inhibitor or through its antioxidant effect, it defuses the attacks of free radicals and thus protects the organism from various degenerative diseases. The immune system is strengthened by increasing the function of the white blood cells and inhibiting inflammation. Thus it can also prevent cancer and detoxifies the body from heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, copper and mercury. Furthermore, it helps with exhaustion, depression and impotence. Glutathione is also present in grape must or wine and plays an important role in the ageing of wine by stabilising volatile sulphur compounds. It is also responsible for the aroma of Sauvignon Blanc and other white grape varieties. See also under Health.
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