Glutathione is the master antioxidant of the body and is best absorbed via IV (or inhalation) since the body will break down most forms of glutathione into its separate parts when taken orally. Glutathione is the most potent endogenous (made in the body) antioxidant that protects major organs from oxidant injury and is the major substance for detoxification in the body. It is the second most abundant molecule in the body, behind H2O, and is made up of three amino acids—cysteine, glycine, and glutamine. Glutathione is a free radical scavenger and has activity similar to vitamin C by helping to donate free electrons. There are many factors which lead to the decrease of glutathione in the body, including aging, poor diet, chronic stress, over-exercise, infections and illness, chronic exposure to toxins and chemicals, and genetic mutations that minimize one’s ability to properly manufacture this critical substance. While it can be found in some foods, it is not usually very useful because of digestive breakdown of glutathione into its component parts. All the other substances that we use in our IV protocols also help to maintain healthy glutathione levels as well.