One of the most important antioxidants is a substance called glutathione. It is present in every cell in the body, and low levels are associated with higher rates of several types of cancer. Conversely, when glutathione levels are high, cancer rates are low. (For more information on fighting cancer, read my special report "Prevent Cancer Before It's Too Late.'')


Nutritionally, there are several ways to increase glutathione levels. These include:
Vitamin C. Adequate intake requires 1,000 mg of buffered ascorbate twice a day, to be taken on an empty stomach. That’s because vitamin C greatly enhances iron absorption from all foods — and iron is a cancer growth stimulant.
N-acetyl-L cysteine (NAC). This chemical supplies one of the chief building blocks of glutathione — cysteine. A number of studies have shown that it is a safe and efficient way to bolster glutathione levels in cells.
Flavonoids. Research indicates that eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables can raise levels of glutathione in cells. Such foods include Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, cilantro, parsley, celery, kale, greens (turnip, collard and mustard), spinach, tomatoes, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries and carrots.
Melatonin. Most people think of melatonin as a sleep supplement, but it is also a powerful antioxidant. A growing number of studies are providing evidence that this substance fights cancer, as it has been proven to increase levels of several antioxidant enzymes in the brain and possibly other parts of the body. While cancer studies employ doses as high as 20 mg a day, it is recommended that you take only 1 to 3 mg just before bedtime. Daytime use is not feasible, as it will make you sleepy.
Melatonin is normally secreted from a tiny gland in the brain, and recent studies have shown that fluoride, MSG (monosodium glutamate), and aspartate (as in aspartame) shut off this vital eurohormone. In fact, a study determined that over a lifetime, a very high concentration of fluoride accumulates in the brain. All this could explain the proliferation of insomnia in this country. And we know that chronic insomnia leads to stress, which boosts the risk of cancer and other diseases. (For more information on conquering insomnia, see my report "Good Sleep: Stop Insomnia, Reduce Stress, Boost Your Total Health" for detailed information.)
Reduced glutathione is also available as a supplement, but generally it’s poorly absorbed.
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