Glutathione Peroxidase: Oxidative Stress Defender

Imagine your cells as a bustling city. Over time, pollution (aka free radicals) builds up, damaging buildings and disrupting daily life. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) acts like a cleanup crew, neutralizing this pollution to keep everything running smoothly. Let’s break down how this enzyme works, why it matters, and how you can support it.
To maximize the effects of glutathione peroxidase, it's crucial to maintain optimal glutathione levels through the right glutathione supplements. Factors like alcohol consumption and glutathione deficiency can impair your body's antioxidant defense.
Exploring high-absorption options such as acetyl glutathione or liposomal glutathione can support cellular health. For those curious about different delivery methods, options like glutathione injections and glutathione IV therapy are also available.
What Is Glutathione Peroxidase?

Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) is an antioxidant enzyme that neutralizes harmful molecules like hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxides. Without GPx, these reactive oxygen species (ROS) would wreak havoc, damaging DNA, proteins, and cell membranes.
How Glutathione Peroxidase Works
GPx teams up with glutathione (GSH), your body’s master antioxidant, to break down dangerous peroxides into harmless water and oxygen. Here’s the play-by-play:
GPx spots a peroxide (like hydrogen peroxide).
It uses glutathione to convert the peroxide into water.
Glutathione gets oxidized (turns into GSSG) but is recycled back by other enzymes.
This process is a cornerstone of your cellular defense system, preventing oxidative stress from accelerating ageing or causing disease.
Types of Glutathione Peroxidase
There are eight GPx enzymes in humans, each with unique roles:
Type |
Location |
Key Function |
GPx1 |
Cytoplasm, mitochondria |
Fights general oxidative stress |
GPx4 |
Cell membranes |
Protects lipids from oxidation |
GPx3 |
Blood plasma |
Shields extracellular spaces |
GPx7 |
Endoplasmic reticulum |
Reduces protein-folding stress |
Why Glutathione Peroxidase Matters for Health
1. Fights Chronic Diseases
Low GPx activity is tied to higher risks of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. For example, GPx1 knockout mice develop severe atherosclerosis, while boosting GPx slows plaque formation.
2. Supports Brain Health
GPx3 in the brain neutralizes peroxides that contribute to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Studies show GPx levels drop in Alzheimer’s patients, suggesting a protective role.
3. Enhances Longevity
Oxidative stress accelerates ageing. By neutralizing ROS, GPx helps maintain cellular youthfulness. In one trial, seniors with higher GPx activity had better muscle function and fewer chronic conditions.
4. Boosts Immunity
GPx protects immune cells from oxidative damage, ensuring they can fight infections effectively. Low GPx levels correlate with weakened immune responses.
How to Boost Your Glutathione Peroxidase Levels
Eat Selenium-Rich Foods
GPx needs selenium to work. Top sources include:
Brazil nuts (1 nut = 68–91 mcg selenium)
Tuna, sardines, and salmon
Eggs and sunflower seeds
The RDA for selenium is 55 mcg/day—but don’t exceed 400 mcg to avoid toxicity.
Supplement with Glutathione Precursors
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) , alpha-lipoic acid, and milk thistle support glutathione production. For a direct boost, consider liposomal glutathione supplements .
Try Targeted Antioxidant Blends
Some supplements combine GPx-boosting ingredients. For example, The Protect – Glutathione+ from For Youth blends glutathione with co-factors like selenium and vitamin E for maximum absorption.
Discover The Protect - Glutathione+ - for youth.
Cellular Shield. Skin Radiance. Immune Strength.
Experience a new era of protection with The Protect, powered by Setria® Glutathione and Sulfodyne® Sulforaphane — the most bioavailable forms of nature’s two most powerful detox and defense compounds. Crafted with patented absorption technology and backed by science, this formula goes deep to protect your cells at the DNA level.
Why You'll Love It:
- Glowing, youthful skin – visibly improves elasticity and reduces fine lines
- Less daily stress – reduces oxidative damage by up to 38%
- Stronger immunity – doubles your body’s natural defense mechanisms
- Cleaner, healthier body – supports liver, kidney, and full-body detox
- Feel more energized – restores cellular vitality and improves recovery
How It Works:
Think of your body like a garden:
-Glutathione clears out free radicals—like weeds—so your cells can thrive.
- Sulforaphane nourishes the soil—deeply enriching your system at the root level.
Together, they rebuild a stronger, more resilient you from the inside out.
Science-Backed Ingredients:
Setria® Glutathione (250mg) – Fermented for unmatched purity & absorption
Sulfodyne® Sulforaphane (100mg) – From broccoli seed extract, stabilized for 7x better uptake
Made in France | Each batch independently tested for purity
How to Take:
Take 1 capsule daily (up to 2 if needed), ideally on an empty stomach.
Each bottle = 30-day supply