Glucuronic acid, derived from glucose, combines with toxins to remove them from the body. It is formed in the liver and aids in biosynthesis and hormone release. Alcohol and drug use can deplete it, and it may be a treatment for prostate cancer. It is not to be confused with gluconic acid found in Kombucha.
Glucuronic acid is a carboxylic acid derived from glucose, the basic form of sugar in the human body. It forms when glucose interacts with oxygen and creates a slightly different structure, through a process known as oxidation. The main function of this acid is to combine with toxins and remove them from the body.
Glucuronic acid formation takes place in the liver of all animals, including humans and other primates, and is derived from glucose. Glucose is a simple sugar or monosaccharide. Glucuronic acid is an oxidized form of glucose, which means that the glucose has interacted with an oxygen molecule and changed its structure.
The main function of these acids is to combine with other substances such as drugs, toxins and hormones, and carry them to other parts of the body or eliminate them. This combination, known as conjugation, makes substances more soluble in water and easier to pass out of the body through urine. The process also facilitates the release of these substances, primarily hormones in this case, wherever they are needed in the body. Glucuronic acids also aid in the biosynthesis of ascorbic acid in all animals except guinea pigs and primates.
Consumption of alcohol and other substances that cause liver damage decreases the body’s ability to produce glucuronic acids. The use of prescription drugs and some over-the-counter drugs can also deplete your supply of glucuronic acids. When this happens, it can contribute to toxicity in the body and lead to other long-term health problems.
Since glucuronic acid is part of the natural detoxification process in the body, it has also been considered as a treatment for certain diseases, especially prostate cancer. In addition to flushing out harmful toxins in the body, it also appears to regulate testosterone levels, which may help with this type of cancer. Some have suggested that taking supplements containing these acids will help prevent prostate cancer.
Glucuronic acid is often confused with gluconic acid, another carboxylic acid derived from glucose. Gluconic acid is oxidized to a different carbon than glucose and performs different functions in the body. Both substances have been reported to be found in the fermented health drink called Kombucha. This has been somewhat controversial, as some have stated that Kombucha does not contain this acid, so it is not as useful for detoxifying the body.
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