Glyconutrients, also known as essential saccharides, are carbohydrates discovered in the seventies. Before scientists figured out their true importance, carbohydrates in general were considered just an energy source, and nobody thought of them as agents involved in the correct functioning of the immune system.

Glyconutrients adhere themselves to protein molecules on the cell's surface to form certain complex structures called glycoproteins, which are used by our bodies to transmit and receive biological messages from one cell to another. These saccharides perform several tasks; one of the most important of these tasks is allowing each cell to establish communication with other cells, to support and improve body needs like nutrition, repairing, protection against infectious and dangerous external agents, and several others.

Unfortunately stress, toxins, lack of enzymes required to synthesize these important polysaccharides inside of our own bodies, food overcooking and a deficient nutrition contribute to make the process of obtaining and converting nutritious substances into these essential carbohydrates. Some of these "special" carbohydrates known as glyconutrients are Galactose, Glucose, Fucose, Mannose, Xylose and the N-Acetyl trio: N-Acetyl Neuraminic Acid, N-Acetyl Galactosamine and N-Acetyl Glucosamine.

Galactose not only helps in the process of wound healing, but it also contributes developing inter cellular communication and increases the ability to absorb calcium. This glyconutrient is obtained inside the intestines, thanks to the action of an enzyme called lactase that chemically reacts to lactose (the "milk's sugar") to form two new carbohydrates: galactose and glucose. Galactose is also believed to help strengthen the immune system.

Glucose is an energy source that helps develop memory. It's the most elemental carbohydrate, and it's essential for life. In plants, this important glyconutrient is produced by a process called photosynthesis, in which the interaction between water, carbon dioxide and solar light originates Glucose.

Fucose is responsible for regulating the immunological system. This glyconutrient enhances inter cellular communication and it is helpful for strengthening weak immune systems.

Mannose is a glyconutrient that is useful to best known for its ability to help the immune system fight infections.

Xylose's main function is fighting bacterial and fungal infections. It is involved in various cellular reactions and processes, including the biosynthesis of several substances needed by our bodies.

N-Acetyl Neuraminic Acid is an extremely useful carbohydrate. It is important for an adequate brain development, enhancing learning skills. This glycoprotein is also believed to regulate the part of the immune system that is responsible for the production and quality of mucus. Mucus is helpful in preventing infections by bacteria and other dangerous agents.

N-Acetyl Galactosamine can help strengthen the immune system. A lack of this glyconutrient has been linked to severe memory problems.

N-Acetyl Glucosamine is involved in the process of cartilage repairing. This glyconutrient help increasing the range of movement of articulations like wrists, knees and elbows.