A study found that glutathione (GSH) significantly reduces acetaldehyde levels, a key cause of hangover symptoms, but did not substantially affect alcohol levels or overall hangover relief. While safe, further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in symptom management.

A recent study published in Nutrients found that glutathione (GSH) may aid in reducing acetaldehyde levels, a key contributor to hangover symptoms, though its overall impact on alcohol metabolism was limited. Researchers in South Korea conducted a trial with 40 participants to evaluate GSH’s effects on alcohol-induced hangovers.

The study revealed that while GSH significantly reduced serum acetaldehyde levels at various time points post-alcohol consumption (p < 0.01), it did not significantly lower blood alcohol levels compared to the placebo group. Acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol breakdown, is known for causing many hangover symptoms.

No adverse effects were observed, and key health markers such as blood pressure, liver enzymes, and glucose levels remained similar between the GSH and placebo groups, indicating GSH's safety. Despite the biochemical benefits, hangover symptom surveys did not show significant differences between the groups, though some improvements were noted in thirst and fatigue among female participants.