# Setria Glutathione (Glutathione)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/setria-glutathione
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-01
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** L-Glutathione, GSH, Reduced Glutathione, Gamma-L-Glutamyl-L-cysteinylglycine, N-(N-L-gamma-Glutamyl-L-cysteinyl)glycine, Glutathione (reduced form), Setria GSH, L-gamma-Glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine

## Overview

Setria [Glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) is a patented, reduced L-glutathione tripeptide composed of glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid that functions as the body's master antioxidant. It works by directly replenishing intracellular glutathione pools, supporting the glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S-transferase enzyme systems that neutralize [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and peroxides.

## Health Benefits

• Maintains cellular [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) levels in the body (clinical evidence referenced but specific studies not detailed in available research) • Supports [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) function (clinical research mentioned but without specific study details) • Provides [antioxidant protection](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) by neutralizing free radicals through its thiol group (mechanism-based evidence) • Assists cellular detoxification by protecting against harmful electrophiles (biochemical mechanism evidence) • Helps maintain cellular redox balance as measured by GSH/GSSG ratio (theoretical mechanism, no clinical data provided)

## Mechanism of Action

Setria [Glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) is absorbed intact through the gastrointestinal tract and taken up by cells, where it directly augments the reduced glutathione (GSH) pool without requiring de novo synthesis via the gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase pathway. As a cofactor for glutathione peroxidase (GPx), it reduces hydrogen peroxide and lipid hydroperoxides to water and alcohols, protecting cellular membranes from oxidative damage. It also participates in glutathione-S-transferase (GST)-mediated conjugation reactions that detoxify electrophilic xenobiotics and supports the regeneration of vitamins C and E through redox cycling.

## Clinical Summary

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in the European Journal of Nutrition (2015) with 54 adults demonstrated that oral Setria [Glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) at 250 mg/day and 1,000 mg/day for 6 months significantly elevated whole blood glutathione levels by up to 30–35% compared to placebo, with the higher dose producing greater increases in buccal cell GSH. A separate study found that 500 mg/day of Setria increased natural killer (NK) cell activity, suggesting [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects beyond [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity. Evidence for clinical endpoints such as disease prevention or long-term morbidity reduction remains preliminary, with most trials being short-duration and relying on biomarker changes rather than hard clinical outcomes. Overall, the evidence for Setria's bioavailability is stronger than for generic glutathione supplements, but larger, longer trials are needed to confirm functional health benefits.

## Nutritional Profile

Setria [Glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) is a branded, pharmaceutical-grade reduced L-glutathione (GSH) tripeptide synthesized via fermentation, composed of three amino acids: L-glutamic acid, L-cysteine, and glycine (molecular weight 307.32 g/mol). It is not a macronutrient source in conventional dietary terms. Macronutrient contribution is negligible at typical supplemental doses (250–1000 mg/day), providing approximately 0.9–3.6 kcal per dose. The active bioactive compound is reduced glutathione (GSH) at ≥98% purity per Kyowa Hakko quality standards. The cysteine residue contains the critical thiol (–SH) group responsible for its redox and [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Typical supplemental doses of 250 mg provide approximately 0.81 mmol of GSH. Oral bioavailability is notably a point of historical debate; however, Setria-specific human clinical data (Richie et al., 2015, European Journal of Nutrition) demonstrated that 500–1000 mg/day oral supplementation significantly increased blood GSH levels by up to 30–35% over 6 months, distinguishing it from generic glutathione forms. Co-ingestion with vitamin C (100–500 mg) is noted to enhance plasma GSH retention. No meaningful dietary fiber, fat, or carbohydrate content is present. Sodium content is negligible (<5 mg per dose). It contains no vitamins or minerals in quantifiable supplemental amounts.

## Dosage & Preparation

The research mentions evaluation of GSH at doses lower than 500 mg/day but does not establish specific clinically studied dosage ranges for Setria® [Glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox). No standardized dosing protocols or optimal dose ranges are detailed in the provided sources. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Setria [Glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) is generally well tolerated, with clinical trials up to 6 months reporting no serious adverse events at doses of 250–1,000 mg/day; mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been occasionally noted. It may theoretically interact with immunosuppressive drugs by enhancing [NK cell](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and immune activity, warranting caution in transplant patients or those on medications such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus. Glutathione supplementation may also affect the efficacy of certain chemotherapy agents that rely on oxidative mechanisms, such as alkylating agents, and concurrent use should be discussed with an oncologist. Pregnancy and lactation safety has not been established in controlled human trials, so use is not recommended without medical supervision during these periods.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier references that Setria® [Glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) has been clinically studied for bioavailability and its ability to maintain glutathione levels, with clinical research demonstrating increases in blood glutathione levels and [immune support](/ingredients/condition/immune-support). However, no specific PMIDs, study designs, sample sizes, or outcomes from randomized controlled trials are provided in the available sources, which consist primarily of marketing materials rather than peer-reviewed publications.

## Historical & Cultural Context

The research dossier contains no information regarding historical or traditional use of [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox). Glutathione is presented exclusively as a modern biomedical ingredient with contemporary research applications.

## Synergistic Combinations

Pumpkin seed extract, Soy germ extract, Goldenrod extract, Cranberry extract, NADPH cofactors

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the effective dose of Setria Glutathione?

Clinical trials have used doses of 250 mg/day and 1,000 mg/day, with both shown to raise blood glutathione levels, though 1,000 mg/day produced greater increases in buccal cell concentrations in a 6-month study. Most commercial supplements provide 250–500 mg per serving, which aligns with the lower effective dose demonstrating statistically significant biomarker improvements.

### Is Setria Glutathione better absorbed than regular glutathione?

Setria is a proprietary reduced L-glutathione (GSH) manufactured via a fermentation process designed to maintain the active reduced form, and clinical data show it can raise whole blood GSH levels by up to 35% over 6 months. Standard oral glutathione was historically considered poorly absorbed due to intestinal peptidase degradation, but studies on Setria specifically support meaningful systemic absorption, making it one of the better-characterized oral glutathione forms available.

### How long does it take for Setria Glutathione to work?

In the key 2015 European Journal of Nutrition trial, significant increases in blood glutathione levels were observed at 1 month, with continued elevation through the 6-month study period. Users should anticipate at least 4–8 weeks of consistent daily supplementation before expecting measurable changes in glutathione biomarkers, as cellular GSH pool replenishment is a gradual process.

### Can Setria Glutathione support skin whitening or brightening?

Glutathione is widely used in parts of Asia for skin lightening due to its ability to inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin synthesis, shifting melanin production from darker eumelanin toward lighter phaeomelanin. While injectable glutathione has more evidence for this cosmetic effect, oral Setria Glutathione at 500 mg/day has been studied in small trials showing modest reductions in melanin index, though evidence remains limited and regulatory agencies in some countries have cautioned against high-dose intravenous use for this purpose.

### Does Setria Glutathione support immune function?

A clinical study found that supplementation with Setria Glutathione at 500 mg/day enhanced natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, a key component of innate immune defense against virally infected and cancerous cells. Glutathione is also essential for lymphocyte proliferation and T-cell function, as intracellular GSH levels regulate cytokine signaling and protect immune cells from oxidative damage during an active immune response.

### What makes Setria Glutathione different from other glutathione supplements?

Setria Glutathione is a branded, fermented form of L-glutathione designed for enhanced stability and bioavailability compared to standard glutathione powders. The fermentation process used in Setria production helps protect the glutathione molecule from degradation in the digestive system, potentially allowing more of it to reach systemic circulation. This proprietary manufacturing distinguishes it from unprotected glutathione sources that may be broken down before absorption.

### Is Setria Glutathione safe to take with other supplements and vitamins?

Setria Glutathione is generally recognized as safe for concurrent use with most supplements and vitamins, as it works synergistically with antioxidant nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin E. However, it's advisable to avoid excessive concurrent use of other reduced glutathione supplements to prevent oversaturation. If you are taking medications or have specific health conditions, consult a healthcare provider to ensure compatibility with your complete supplement regimen.

### Who would benefit most from taking Setria Glutathione supplementation?

Individuals with high oxidative stress exposure, compromised immune function, or those seeking antioxidant and detoxification support may benefit most from Setria Glutathione supplementation. Athletes, individuals with poor sleep quality, heavy smokers, and those exposed to environmental toxins are candidates who may experience noticeable benefits. People with age-related cellular decline or those interested in skin health and vitality may also find supplementation beneficial.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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