In joints, bones are prevented from rubbing against each other by cartilage; a soft tissue that covers the bones and allows the joints to work smoothly and painlessly, cartilage is housed inside the synovial membrane. Synovial fluid, also housed in the synovial membrane, lubricates and nourishes the joint and cartilage.
When arthritis occurs, something has happened to the joint’s health and function. They type of arthritis is determined by what part of the joint is affected and how. Lack of synovial fluid, cartilage deterioration, autoimmunity, inflammation, or a combination of factors can be causes of arthritis.
A powerful part of the body’s natural antioxidant system is a tri-peptide compound composed of cysteine, glycine and glutathione. Glutathione neutralizes free radicals and is needed for many metabolic processes among other important things.
It is necessary four our bodies to have optimal glutathione levels in order to support the immune system. As human’s age, the glutathione levels diminish and the glutathione antioxidant system weakens. This results in a less efficient immune system the more the body ages. Due to age related oxidative stress the cells in joints become more prone to osteoarthritis (OA) and other associated diseases.
Studies show that GSH could be applied in the managing of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.