Low Levels of the Antioxidant Glutathione Linked to Low Mood

Oxidative stress may be a pathway to depression.

Posted July 1, 2025 | Reviewed by Hara Estroff Marano

Feeling foggy, flat, or just off lately? You're not alone, and it might not just be about serotonin or sleep. Science is uncovering a lesser-known, but powerful player in the mood and mental energy equation: glutathione.

Glutathione is your body’s master antioxidant, fighting oxidative stress , reducing inflammation, and keeping your brain cells healthy and functioning at their best. And it may also play a role in how you feel emotionally and mentally.

Glutathione and Mood: What the Science Says

A new study published in Psychopharmacology analyzed brain scans from people with major depressive disorder and found that they had significantly lower levels of glutathione in one area of the brain, the occipital cortex. While the region is known mostly for vision, it may also help process emotions and sensory experiences.

Low glutathione in the same region was linked to anhedonia , the inability to feel pleasure. That “blah” feeling, when nothing brings you joy, not even things you used to love, might have a biological connection to oxidative stress .

How to Boost Glutathione Naturally

Your body makes glutathione on its own, but poor diet , chronic stress, lack of sleep, and environmental toxins can deplete it. However, there are ways to help the body rebuild its reserves.

Here are five simple, realistic strategies that fit into any busy lifestyle:

Eat More Sulfur-Rich Veggies

Think broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, garlic, and onions. These foods are rich in sulfur-containing compounds that the body uses to make glutathione. Toss some garlic and kale into your next pasta or smoothie for an easy antioxidant boost.

Sip on Whey Protein

Whey contains the amino acid cysteine, one of the components of glutathione. If you prefer a plant-based source, look for pea or soy protein with added cysteine. A protein shake after your workout can support recovery and your mood.

Exercise increases natural glutathione production, and sleep is when your brain detoxes. Together, they help restore balance and reduce oxidative stress. Just 20 minutes of walking outdoors can support your mental health and antioxidant levels.

Ditch the Mood Zappers

Alcohol , smoking , consuming ultra-processed foods, and chronic stress all deplete glutathione. You don’t have to be perfect, just mindful . Start by cutting back and replacing one not-so-great habit with a better one. Swap your second coffee or glass of wine for a sparkling adaptogen drink or matcha latte.

Support with Supplements

If you want to increase your glutathione levels directly, taking glutathione itself is the most straightforward option. Some people also use N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and/or glutathione precursors to help the body make even more glutathione.

Final Thoughts: Your Brain Deserves Backup

Your mental health is about more than thoughts and feelings. It’s also about biochemistry. Glutathione may not be a miracle cure, but it plays a big role in protecting your brain from the daily wear and tear of stress, toxins, and inflammation. Your brain deserves all the backup it can get.

Bell CJM, Mehta M, Mirza L, Young AH, Beck K. (2025). Glutathione alterations in depression: a meta-analysis and systematic review. Psychopharmacology , 242:717–724. doi:10.1007/s00213-024-06735-1

Richie JP Jr, Nichenametla S, Neidig W, Calcagnotto A, Haley JS, Schell TD, Muscat JE. (2015). Randomized controlled trial of oral glutathione supplementation on body stores of glutathione. European Journal of Nutrition , 54(2):251–263. doi:10.1007/s00394-014-0706-z

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Karen E. Todd is a registered dietitian with more than 30 years of experience in exercise performance and nutritional product development and education.

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This article is part of the Bringwise Psychology Journal — daily insights on human behavior, mental health, and personal growth.