Cysteine, Gut Friendly and for the making of Glutathione

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Nutrient Family:     

• Amino Acid

Cysteine is one of the 3 amino acids use for the production of another antioxidant, Glutathione. Because Glutathione is a Master Antioxidant that can recycle all antioxidants, including itself, Cysteine's role is important in supporting the creation of Glutathione.

Cysteine's Workings

Fat or Water Soluble Antioxidant: 

• Water Soluble
  

Other functions besides being an antioxidant:

• Use for the production of Glutathione
• Aids absorption issues in the gastrointestinal tract
• Reduce toxic effects of alcohol
• Required by sheep to produce wool

Where Is Cysteine Found Naturally?

Cysteine is found naturally in high protein foods, both animals and plants, but usually in a compound form of other amino acids (methionine and homocysteine). This compound forms needs to be broken down, in the liver, so that the body can then utilize the cysteine molecules.

Examples of food sources:

• Pork
• Poultry
• Eggs
• Dairy
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Wheat germ

Health Benefits of Cysteine

Examples of the health benefits of Cysteine:

• Counter effects of pollution – including cigarette smoke
• Helps in asthma
• Improve immune functions

Use as Food Addictive

As a food additive:

• E number E920

Possible Interactions

• Cysteine taken directly is toxic. Hence, best taken as a compound of other amino acids.