G6PD is glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, an enzyme that plays a vital role in glutathione production. Remember that glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that is also involved in the processing and detoxification of toxic substances. So, not having enough G6PD means not having enough antioxidant protection and detoxification support.
G6PD deficiency is the most common enzyme deficiency worldwide and contributes to hemolytic anemia, increased oxidative stress, inflammation, immune dysfunction, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, obesity, stress, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, and vitamin D deficiency.
Newborns should be screened for G6PD and any degree of deficiency should be monitored and addressed. In one case of a 24-year old whose deficiency was undiagnosed, severe symptoms developed including severe muscle breakdown, metabolic acidosis, and significantly increased bilirubin, liver enzymes, and inflammatory markers.
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