In Episode 14 of Kid’s Corner, learn how glutathione supports detox, immunity, and brain health in children with autism, with insights from Dr. Liz Mumper and the MAPS Conference.

In this episode of Kid’s Corner, pediatrician and IMA Senior Fellow Dr. Elizabeth Mumper explores the essential role of glutathione, the body’s primary intracellular antioxidant. Glutathione is vital for detoxification, mitochondrial energy production, immune regulation, and maintaining a healthy redox (oxidation-reduction) balance. When glutathione is depleted, the result is often persistent inflammation, oxidative stress, and worsening neurological symptoms.

Dr. Mumper highlights key insights from Dr. Nayan Patel’s recent presentation at the Medical Academy of Pediatrics and Special Needs (MAPS) Conference, which emphasized why many children on the autism spectrum struggle with low glutathione levels. This deficiency isn’t just a lab marker—it’s a contributor to the chronic health challenges these children face.

The good news is that there are actionable steps families and clinicians can take. Dr. Mumper explains how genomic testing and lab data can help identify genetic variants that affect glutathione metabolism. With this information, providers can offer personalized support using tools like NAC, B vitamins, magnesium, and CoQ10, all of which help boost glutathione production and restore function.

She also stresses the importance of nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diets as a foundation for healing. In some cases, pharmaceutical options—including oral or liposomal forms of glutathione—can provide an added therapeutic benefit.

Whether through nutrition, supplements, or precision medicine, supporting the body’s glutathione system helps improve detoxification, energy production, and resilience. This episode offers practical strategies to help children move toward better health, one step at a time.