Glorious Glutathione: A Power House Antioxidant for Athletic Performance

May 24, 2018 3 min read

Athletic cyclist going down a rocky hillside in the desert.

Have you heard of glutathione (pronounced “gloota-thigh-own”)? Over the past couple of years, this powerful antioxidant has been a hot topic in nutrition and athletic circles. It’s even been called the “Powerhouse of Antioxidants.”

Enough research has been done on glutathione to inspire numerous companies to create supplements for those looking to improve their recovery after training and hard workouts.

I’ve been doing my own research on this monster of a molecule and seeking ways we can get more of it into our diets through fresh vegetables. I won’t go into all the science behind glutathione but here are some benefits that scientific studies have found in the “Mother of all antioxidants”…

  • Improved Immunity
  • Supports healthy T-cell function
  • Cancer fighter
  • Slows pre-mature aging of cells
  • Heals injuries faster by restoring cells

 

Getting Personal

Here’s where it gets personal. In my own research of finding ways to increase my glutathione intake, I landed on specific vegetables that actually stimulate the production of this antioxidant in the human body. So I thought to myself, “why not find several of these vegetables at my local supermarket and make a chopped salad in our food processor?”

And the results have been incredible as I consume this chopped salad literally on a daily basis. Not only am I getting a nice dose of glutathione but I’m also getting healthy fiber in an easily digested form. So what does this finely chopped salad include? Thought you’d never ask.


“CJ Hitz Glutathione Blitz”

  • Broccoli 
  • Cauliflower 
  • Cabbage 
  • Brussels Sprouts 
  • Garlic
  • Parsley 
  • Spinach 
  • Beets (peel outer layer off)
  • Turmeric 

 

As I mentioned above, I use our food processor which makes this really easy. Place in a large bowl in the fridge. Keep all of it raw for the highest nutrient content. The garlic, turmeric, and parsley you use in smaller amounts since they’re stronger in taste.

The bottom line is having a well-rounded mix that you can eat on for several days. Many of the vegetables on that list are of the cruciferous variety and naturally emit a sulfur-like odor. You’ll get a nice whiff every time you open that big bowl for a serving.

 

Other vegetables:

High in the glutathione list include arugula, watercress, turnip, bok choy, collard greens, kale, radish and mustard greens, asparagus, okra, carrots, zucchini, green bell peppers.

Here’s a dressing you can also put together which complements this salad nicely…

 

Per serving:

  • 1Tbsp. Tamari soy sauce 
  • 1 Tbsp. Honey or pure maple syrup 
  • 1/2 tsp. lemon juice 
  • cracked pepper mixed in 
  • optional 1 tsp. peanut butter OR tahini mixed into dressing
  • mix up well with fork or spoon 

 

The dressing could also be made in larger amounts & mixed up before using. If I’m feeling lazy, I simply add some lemon juice, Tamari soy sauce and cracked pepper and mix into each serving I eat.

Even as I’ve significantly increased my training load, I’ve noticed my body feeling really good. Both my recovery time and inflammation levels have decreased which are two things an endurance athlete is looking for. I’ve shared this chopped salad recipe with all of the athletes I coach and several have noticed similar benefits.

 

My 1-2-3 punch that I’ve been experimenting with as of late:

  1. Taking a serving of PerfectAminoXP in the morning
  2. Eating this chopped salad around lunch time
  3. Taking another serving of PerfectAminoXP before going to bed

When I wake up the next day, my 44 year-old body feels ready to roll. In fact, I feel as though I’m recovering like a 22 year-old!

Get more glutathione and you’re bound to feel glorious!


*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.