What Are Glyconutrients?
Short answer: "Glyconutrients" is Mannatech's name for plant-derived saccharides (sugars) such as mannose, galactose and the aloe polysaccharide acemannan. They are the key ingredients in Mannatech's Ambrotose products, which are designed to support cell-to-cell communication.* It is a product term, not an official nutrient category recognized by the FDA.
Where the idea comes from
Glycobiology is the study of sugars attached to proteins and fats on the surface of cells (glycans). These glycans help cells recognize and signal one another. Mannatech built its Ambrotose line around supplying plant saccharides from sources such as aloe vera, arabinogalactan and other plant fibers.
What's in Mannatech's glyconutrient products
- Manapol – Mannatech's stabilized aloe vera extract, a source of acemannan.
- Arabinogalactan and other plant fibers – Polysaccharides that also act as prebiotic fiber.
Which products contain them
- Ambrotose LIFE – highest Manapol content
- Ambrotose Complex – the original formula
- Advanced Ambrotose – capsules
- Manapol – concentrated acemannan
For a side-by-side guide, see Ambrotose LIFE vs. Complex vs. Advanced.
Frequently asked questions
Are glyconutrients essential nutrients?
No. "Glyconutrient" is a marketing and product term. The body can make the sugars it needs from other foods; glyconutrient supplements provide plant saccharides directly.
Are glyconutrients the same as prebiotics?
Some overlap. Several of the plant polysaccharides in Ambrotose, such as arabinogalactan, are fibers that also act as prebiotics.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.