This ‘master antioxidant’ beloved by Gwyneth Paltrow declines in your 40s — how to get more of it

Hit your 40s? Your body has already started making less of a “master antioxidant” that’s essential for your immunity.

According to registered dietitian Keri Glassman, MS, it “plays a crucial role in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress” — and also helps your body eliminate harmful toxins.

But don’t fret too much: You can pretty easily get more of this wonder compound in your diet

Glutathione is a powerful tripeptide comprised of three amino acids: glutamine, glycine, and cysteine. While the body naturally produces glutathione, levels fluctuate and decline due to poor nutrition, stress, improper rest, environmental toxins — and aging.

“By neutralizing free radicals and supporting detoxification, glutathione allows the immune system to operate more efficiently,” Glassman told The Post.

“It essentially clears the ‘clutter’ in the body, allowing the immune system to focus on its primary job: Protecting you and maintaining your health.”

Glutathione production wanes as we age, a decrease that begins in our 40s. In turn, this reduction weakens the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to inflammation and oxidative stress.

“When glutathione levels decline, the body becomes less efficient at detoxifying harmful substances and neutralizing oxidative stress. This may lead to increased inflammation, cellular damage, and a weakened immune system,” Glassman added.

“Over time, low glutathione levels may contribute to chronic health issues, reduced energy, and a greater susceptibility to illness.”

While we can’t stop the aging process, we can adopt certain habits that increase glutathione levels.

How can you get more glutathione in your diet?

Getting your glutathione from food is one of the easiest and most effective ways to increase our intake, Glassman said.

Some foods with glutathione:

• Asparagus
• Avocados
• Spinach
• Okra
• Zucchini 

Sulfur is a key component in the amino acids that make up glutathione, so eating lots of sulfur-rich veggies can help. your body produce more of the antioxidant. These include:

“Foods high in vitamins C and E, such as bell peppers and spinach, also support glutathione production,” Glassman added.

She also recommends consuming whey protein — which is found in dairy products — and one to two Brazil nuts a day.

Should you take glutathione supplements?

Glassman maintains that it’s crucial to consume a diet high in glutathione, not only for the glutathione itself, but for other essential nutrients the foods contain.

However, “if you’re already eating a nutrient-dense diet and feel like you need more support, supplements may be worth exploring.”

It can be administered intravenously or orally; however, the IV route is reportedly favored by celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Hailey Bieber, since it bypasses the digestive tract and delivers the juice directly into the bloodstream.

Reported side effects from glutathione injections or IV drips include body aches, nausea, headaches, chills, and diarrhea.

Glassman noted that while both methods have their merits, oral supplementation is, in general, a more cost-effective, accessible, and sustainable approach.

“IV glutathione may offer an immediate boost, but its risks and fleeting benefits make oral supplementation, especially with clinically studied ingredients like Setria® Glutathione, the suggested strategy,” said Glassman.

Finally, she recommends getting regular exercise and adequate sleep, which have also been shown to help maintain optimal levels of glutathione.