Glutathione

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant and free radical scavenger, which keeps oxidative stress in check under severe metabolic stress (like during intense exercise). Keeping free radicals under control during exercise has been shown to delay fatigue and increase training volume. 

A recent study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition provides mechanistic and supporting evidence for the use of glutathione boosting supplements to decrease fatigue during exercise. In this study, researchers from Japan found that glutathione supplementation delays muscle fatigue by suppressing blood lactate levels as well as fatigue related psychological factors in healthy men. 

ACTION POINT: There are a few ways you can boost your body’s glutathione levels. The most reliable and affordable way to support endogenous glutathione production is to take 600-1200 mg N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) 30 minutes prior to training or with a meal. Otherwise, like the current study, you can take 1 gram of reduced glutathione 30 minutes prior to training. 

Reference:

Aoi W, Ogaya Y, Takami M, Konishi T, Sauchi Y, Park EY, Wada S, Sato K, Higashi A.

Glutathione supplementation suppresses muscle fatigue induced by prolonged exercise via improved aerobic metabolism. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015 Feb 6;12:7.