8 Essential Sugars...Polysaccharides
The saccharides make up what could
be called the “alphabetic code” that our cells use to communicate with each
other. However, just like our written
alphabet, this cellular code requires the
availability
of all eight carbohydrates to enable our cells to communicate
properly.
The eight essential saccharides our
bodies need are described as follows in Miracle Sugars (2003) by Rita Elkins M.H.es.
Glucose – Readily available in our
diets (converted from white sugar, fructose and starchy foods) and in most
cases is over-supplied in the form of sugarcane, rice, corn, potatoes, wheat,
etc.
Galactose – Readily available in our
diets, it is obtained from the conversion of lactose (milk sugar) and is also
easily obtained from dairy products UNLESS you suffer from lactose intolerance.
Fucose – Not readily available in
our diets but is found in breast milk and several medicinal mushrooms. It has
numerous well-documented benefits for the immune system.
Mannose – Not readily available in
our diets, it plays a profound role in cellular interactions and has even been
known to lower blood sugar levels. It is absolutely vital for proper immune
defenses against microbial invaders, and it has a natural anti-inflammatory
effect. (This is the sugar from which the term “Miracle Manna” was coined. –
ed)
Xylose – Not readily available in
our diets, it is often seen in sugarless gums, candies, etc., in that it has a
sweet taste but does not cause tooth decay. It has known anti-bacterial and
anti-fungal properties.
N-acetyl-neuraminic acid – Not
readily available in our diets but is another sugar that abounds in breast milk
and dramatically impacts brain function and growth. It too boosts immune
function and has documented anti-viral actions.
N-acetyl-glucosamine – Not readily
available in our diets, it is particularly beneficial for joint health as well
as having other health benefits.
N-acetyl-galactosamine – Not readily
available in our diets, it is the least known of the essential sugars. It plays
an individual role in keeping cell communiqués clear and promptly delivered.
The eight sugars in various
combinations make up the extensive vocabulary used by our cells. These cell
surface carbohydrates serve as communication for all cells and identification
of bacteria, viruses, toxins, hormones and many other molecules."
Rita Elkins goes on to point out that “These
sugars are so important to our health that Mother Nature has made provisions to
insure we get them early on in life. Breast milk contains all of the essential
sugars.”
