Polysaccharides Known for storing energy
There are two types of polysaccharides that the body uses to store energy: starch And glycogen Starch serves as a short-term energy store and is made from a mixture of amylose and amylopectin. Some common food starches include rice, potatoes, wheat and corn. Glycogen, on the other hand, acts more as a long-term storage option. Glycogen is mainly produced by the liver and muscles, but can also be produced during a process called glycogen glycogenesiswhich occurs in both the brain and the stomach.
The role of polysaccharides in nutrition
Polysaccharides are critical when it comes to proper nutrition because they contain the complex carbohydrates that for many serve as the body’s primary energy source. Every bodily function depends on carbohydrates for energy. But while the body can produce some energy, it is certainly not enough to sustain itself.
If we don’t get enough carbohydrates, we will have to supplement with energy from other sources instead. When you don’t consume enough carbohydrates, your body is at risk for physical complaints. Examples include a drop in blood sugar levels and feelings of weakness and dizziness. However, polysaccharides can help you overcome fatigue, support healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels, encourage a positive mood, soothe irritation, support immune function, promote cardiovascular health, and even increase libido. [2] [3] [4]
Fit polysaccharides into your diet
Most Americans are unable to meet all their nutritional needs through diet alone. This is where mindful eating and supplements are important. But when it comes to supplements, you need to understand what you actually need and how to find it. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you check all ingredients before taking anything. And now that the market is flooded with companies doing their best just to make money, it’s also a good idea to learn something about the manufacturer.
If you want to improve your diet, aloe vera and aloe vera-based products are great sources of polysaccharides. Aloe vera contains one important polysaccharide called acemannan, which really sets it apart from other plants nutritionally. However, acemannan contains more than just energy properties. This specific polysaccharide strengthens the immune system, improves dental health and can even be used to support wound healing. [5] [6] [7]
As if that weren’t enough, aloe vera is packed with other important vitamins, minerals and nutrients – so much so that it’s actually considered a superfood. [8] Because aloe vera is so rich in important nutrients, including those unique to the species such as acemannan, it supports overall health in several ways. Of course, adding aloe vera to your diet isn’t as simple as breaking off a leaf and taking a bite.
How should you consume Aloe Vera?
Popular in many forms, you’ll find aloe vera in products such as lotions, gels, creams, juices and capsules. If you really want to experience the full effect of everything this plant has to offer, you will have to take it. [9] There are several aloe vera juices available, but many do not provide a significant amount of the key nutrients that make aloe vera so beneficial. The same goes for many encapsulated forms of aloe vera. Another problem with these types of products is that they may contain amounts of an aloe compound called aloin, which serves as an extremely powerful laxative. As you might imagine, biting into a freshly cut leaf would carry the same risk.
Until now, it has actually been a bit tricky to enjoy the full nutritional benefits of aloe vera. We have introduced Aloe Vera from Global Healing, a new bioavailable, aloin-free aloe vera supplement. Global Healing’s Aloe Vera is made from the most bioavailable, most immunomodulatory aloe vera powder. When it comes to the main polysaccharide, acemannan, our product contains:
- Highest total acemannan – average 18%
- Acemannan <400KDa
- Bioavailable acemannan < 50 kDa
- Full spectrum of molecular weight polysaccharides
- Polysaccharide content – average 20%
It is the culmination of all the health-supporting benefits of aloe vera that contribute to a person’s overall well-being. Our priority is wellness through body detoxification and nutritional support and that’s why we’re so excited to introduce Global Healing’s Aloe Vera.
†Results may vary. The information and explanations provided are for educational purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a serious medical condition or health problem, consult your doctor.