Glyco Primer 
Understanding Sugar Science


Most of us believe that sugar is bad for our health. Our western diet is packed with chemical and artificial sugars in all shapes, forms, and disguises. It makes its way into every party, holiday, and event.  We can't get away from it and the impact weighs heavily on us - and on our health.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

There are many names for sugar.  There are good sugars in nature, called essential sugars.  There are bad chemical sugars that stress our body. Then there are - what I call ugly sugars which refers to as artificial sweeteners. The Glyco primer is designed to help you understand sugar science and terminology.  It may inspire you to think about sugar in a whole new way!

The Glyco Primer

Glyco

A Greek word that is loosely translated to mean sweet.

Glycobiology

The branch of science that studies the role of sugar molecules in living organisms.

Glycans

The bonding of essential sugars with proteins or fats to form structures on the surface of the cell.  Responsible for optimal communication of cells and proper structure and function of cells.

Glycomics

The total knowledge of sugars and how they function in health and wellness.  

Glyconutrients

Biochemicals that contain sugar molecules. Some glyconutrients are essential in the formation of glycans. 

Glycoconjugates

The molecules on the cell surface used as recognition. A general term for the sub-class of glycoprotein's or glycolipid's.

Glucose

A common and yet essential monosaccharide used as a source of energy and the formation of glyconutrients when necessary. Excess glucose in the form of white table sugar can damage health, while glucose from nature is vital for building healthy cells.

Glycoproteins

Specific sugar molecules attached to a protein molecule on the surface of the cell. Responsible for cell to cell communication and optimal structure and function of the cell.

Glycolipid

Specific chain of Sugar molecules attached to a fat on the cell surface. More than 100 glycolipids are found in human tissue. They function as receptor molecules and are involved in the communication system of the body.

Other Important Terms

Phytonutrients
or- Phytochemicals

Compounds in nature that contain protective properties against free radicals.  Plants produce phytochemicals to protect themselves from harm.  This in turn makes them high in antioxidant protection in our body.  There are over 1000 known phytonutrients on the planet.

Phytosterol

A substance in plants that is similar to hormone precursor. They supply the body with food for hormone production without the potential toxic affect from synthetic hormones.

Mexican Yam (Dioscorea Villosia) is an example of a plant that is rich in phytosterol's. The mexican yam extract is almost identical to DHEA.  Dioscorea Villosia may be the extra support needed for hormone balance and optimal glandular health.



Who would have thought that the path to renewable health is paved with sugar!








Beneficial sugars are used in the body for  much more than just fuel!