The Original Glutathione Formula (OGF) was formulated to overcome the issues associated with
the production and accumulation of glutathione in the cells of our body. OGF provides the essential amino acid building block, cysteine, required for generation of glutathione. And while the body can produce cysteine on its own, its availability remains the limiting factor in the synthesis of glutathione. For this reason, OGF contains the essential glutathione building block, N- acetyl cysteine, which is more stable and readily converted to cysteine within the body. OGF also includes multiple ingredients that aid in the generation, preservation and regeneration of glutathione through enhancing the activity of Nrf2. In recent years there has been a growing appreciation for Nrf2 and its role in promoting the expression of several different antioxidants. Due to its involvement in the detoxification of cells, Nrf2 has been referred to as the “master regulator” of the antioxidant response. A number of scientific studies have shown that Nrf2 becomes activated in cells undergoing oxidative stress and leads to profound alterations in gene expression. Specifically, the actions of Nrf2 were responsible for increased expression of several antioxidants including glutathione. Collectively, OGF increases the abundance of antioxidants, such as glutathione, within the cells of our body and aims to reduce the presence of free radicals, reduce oxidative stress and restore overall vitality.
Glutathione and Nrf2 Combat Oxidative Stress
Free Radicals promote oxidative stress
It is widely accepted that as we age the cells in our body accumulate damage through the harmful action(s) of free radicals. If left unchecked, free radicals promote oxidative stress and play a contributing factor in a variety of health challenges.
The role of antioxidants
Antioxidants in every cell of our body serve to neutralize or “quench” free radicals, and in doing so prevent cellular damage and oxidative stress. There are a variety of antioxidants that contribute to the neutralization of harmful free radicals. Of particular importance are glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and tocopherol (Vitamin E). While the body is able to produce some of these critical antioxidants itself, others are exclusively acquired through diet or supplementation.
The balance between antioxidants and free radicals
The generation of free radicals arises as a consequence of normal cellular activities, including the production of cellular energy (ATP). Whereas healthy cells efficiently quench the by-product free radicals that arise from normal cellular processes, aged and/or dysfunctional cells accumulate free radicals and become further damaged due to insufficient antioxidant capacity. The accumulation of these damaging free radicals is thought to be a key driver in reduced cellular fitness and premature aging. Moreover, as we age the cells of our bodies become less capable of maintaining balance between production of free radicals and maintenance of antioxidants that serve to neutralize them.
When free radicals begin to accumulate
Our bodies are composed of multiple systems that execute a number of complex functions. These systems are composed of individual cells that work in concert. Consequently, a deficiency in fitness at the cellular level leads to an overall reduction of health and vitality.In time, a body under continuous oxidative stress may experience a variety of symptoms including:
- Reduced stamina and recovery
- Reduced focus and memory retention
- Reduced metabolism and energy
- Reduced immunity
Glutathione and other Antioxidants
Glutathione is a critically important antioxidant involved in the maintenance of optimal cellular function. In contrast to other antioxidant proteins such as SOD (Super Oxide Dismutase) or catalase, glutathione is a unique tripeptide that aids in neutralization of many different types of free radicals produced within the cell. Please download and read the free Glutathione eBook written by Dr. Keller for a more in-depth explanation of how glutathione is fundamentally different from all other antioxidants.