Description

Functions

• Antioxidant activity: It is a precursor to glutathione, a crucial antioxidant in the body. It helps protect cells from oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, thus reducing the risk of chronic diseases related to oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers.
• Detoxification and liver protection: It supports liver function by aiding in detoxification processes. It assists in the synthesis of glutathione, which is essential for the liver to metabolize toxins and harmful substances, promoting overall liver health and mitigating the effects of liver disorders.
• Skin and hair improvement: In cosmetic applications, it can promote collagen synthesis and provide antioxidant protection. This helps improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and support hair growth and strength.
• Reducing agent: It can break down disulfide bonds, which is useful in some industrial processes and cosmetic formulations, such as in hair treatments to change the structure of hair proteins.

Applications

• Food industry: It is mainly used as a dough conditioner and flavor enhancer. In baking, it improves the texture and elasticity of dough, facilitates the development of gluten, and contributes to the structure and volume of baked goods like bread and cakes. It can also be used in natural fruit juices to prevent the oxidation of vitamin C and browning.
• Pharmaceutical industry: It is used as a stabilizer and antioxidant in pharmaceutical formulations to protect sensitive drug compounds from oxidation degradation, prolonging their shelf life. It is also used in the synthesis of various medications and as a component of parenteral nutrition formulations. In addition, it can be used to reduce the toxic effects of alcohol.
• Cosmetics and personal care: It is included in skin care formulations to improve skin texture and is used in anti – aging creams and serums due to its free – radical – scavenging ability. It is also used in hair care products, such as for permanent waving, to improve the texture and appearance of hair.
• Other fields: It can be used as a nutritional supplement in agriculture, animal feed, and poultry to provide necessary amino acids.