Glyconutrients – what they are, why you need them, where to get them

Glyconutrients – what they are, why you need them, where to get them

An HSI member named Kelly writes: “Can you tell me anything about glyconutrients? Anything would be appreciated.”

There are eight key glyconutrients (sugar compounds) that function individually as building blocks to assemble a nearly infinite variety of complex molecules known as glycans, or sugar chains.

As I noted in the e-Alert, “Sugar Coated,” (12/1/05), glycans play a vital role in nearly every physiological process, including immune system response, tissue regeneration and cell replication.

One of the most important functions of glycans is the facilitation of brain functions. For instance, serotonin and other neurotransmitters require glycan receptors in order to bind to the surface of nerve cells. Memory, stress response and other critical brain functions may become debilitated without the adequate assistance of glyconutrient sugar chains.

A diet that includes plenty of unprocessed fruits and vegetables will supply your body with many glyconutrients.

You can find more information about glyconutrients in the e-Alert “Sugar Coated” (12/1/05).