What are glycans? A plain-language introduction

“Glycans” is a word you may have seen on supplement labels or skincare packaging and quietly skipped over. It sounds technical, but the idea behind it is surprisingly elegant. Here is a plain-language introduction to what glycans are, where they are found and why they have become such an interesting area of research.

Glycans in one sentence

Glycans are chains of sugar molecules, often attached to proteins and fats, that are found on the surface of cells and throughout the body.

When most of us hear “sugar” we think of the white crystals in a sugar bowl. In biology, though, “sugars” (or carbohydrates) are a large family of molecules. Some are simple, like glucose. Others link together into long, sometimes branching chains. These more complex structures are what scientists call glycans, and the field that studies them is called glycobiology.

Where are glycans found?

Glycans appear in every living thing — in plants, animals, fungi and microbes. In the human body, many glycans are attached to proteins (forming glycoproteins) or to fats (forming glycolipids). A great many of them sit on the outer surface of cells, forming a dense, fuzzy coating that scientists sometimes call the glycocalyx.

What do glycans do?

Researchers describe glycans as playing a role in a wide range of biological processes. Because they sit on the outside of cells, they are involved in how cells recognise each other and how they interact with their surroundings. You will sometimes see this described as a kind of “language” or “code” that cells use — a helpful metaphor for structures that carry information in their shape and arrangement.

Glycobiology is a large and active area of science, and much is still being learned. It is worth being cautious of anyone who claims glycans can do everything; the honest picture is that they are fundamental, fascinating and still being explored.

Glycans and food

Many foods naturally contain complex carbohydrates and plant polysaccharides — think of the fibres in vegetables, legumes, mushrooms, seaweed and whole grains, or the gel inside the aloe vera leaf. Eating a varied, plant-rich diet is one of the simplest ways to bring a wide range of these naturally occurring carbohydrates onto your plate.

Where Summer Petals fits in

Plant-sourced glycans, such as the aloe-derived polysaccharides and other complex carbohydrates found in plants, have been studied for several decades. Glycan-based nutrition and skincare are designed to complement a balanced diet and lifestyle; they are not a substitute for varied food, good sleep, movement or medical care.

At Summer Petals we talk about glycans because we find the science fascinating and because it fits a gentle, whole-person approach. We are an independent business, and we encourage you to read product labels, ask questions and speak with your healthcare professional, particularly if you take medication or are pregnant or nursing.

A few common questions

Are glycans the same as sugar?

They are made of sugar units, but they are not the same as table sugar. Glycans are generally complex, structured chains, and many dietary forms behave quite differently in the body from simple sugars.

Can I get glycans from food?

A varied diet rich in vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains and mushrooms naturally provides a wide range of complex carbohydrates. Supplements are an optional extra, not a requirement.

Will glycan supplements fix a health problem?

No supplement should be relied on to diagnose, treat or cure any condition. If you have a health concern, please see a qualified professional.

Keep exploring

Read our overview of the science of glycans, or browse our five wellness paths to see how we weave these ideas into everyday routines.