For individuals who are getting into exercise, fitness, and physical activity, can knowing how glycogen works help in workout recovery?
Glycogen
When the body needs energy, it draws on its glycogen stores. Low-carbohydrate, ketogenic diets and intense exercise deplete glycogen stores, causing the body to metabolize fat for energy. Glycogen is supplied through carbohydrates in an individual’s diet and is used to power the brain, physical activity, and other bodily functions. The molecules made from glucose are mainly stored in the liver and muscles. What is eaten, how often, and the activity level influence how the body stores and uses glycogen. Restoring glycogen after physical activity or working out is a vital part of the recovery process. The body can quickly mobilize glycogen from these storage sites when it needs fuel. Eating enough carbohydrates to reach health goals and activity levels is essential for success.
What Is It
It is the body’s stored form of glucose or sugar.
It is stored in the liver and muscles.
It is the body’s primary and preferred energy source.
It comes from carbohydrates in foods and drinks.
It is made from several connected glucose molecules.
Production and Storage
Most carbohydrates eaten are converted to glucose, which becomes the body’s main energy source. However, when the body doesn’t need fueling, the glucose molecules become linked chains of eight to 12 glucose units, forming a glycogen molecule.
Process Triggers
Eating a carbohydrate-containing meal will raise blood glucose levels in response.
Increasing glucose signals the pancreas to produce insulin, a hormone that helps the body’s cells take up glucose from the bloodstream for energy or storage.
Insulin activation causes the liver and muscle cells to produce an enzyme called glycogen synthase, which links glucose chains together.
With enough glucose and insulin, glycogen molecules can be delivered to the liver, muscles, and fat cells for storage.
Since most glycogen is found in the muscles and liver, the amount stored in these cells varies depending on activity level, how much energy is burned at rest, and the foods eaten. The muscles primarily use glycogen stored in the muscles, while glycogen stored in the liver is distributed throughout the body, mainly to the brain and spinal cord.
Body Usage
The body converts glucose to glycogen through a process called glycogenesis. During this process, various enzymes help the body break down glycogen in glycogenolysis so the body can use it. The blood has a set amount of glucose ready to go at any given time. The insulin levels also drop when the level begins to decline, either from not eating or burning glucose during exercise. When this happens, an enzyme known as glycogen phosphorylase starts breaking the glycogen down to supply the body with glucose. Glucose from liver glycogen becomes the body’s primary energy. Short bursts of energy use glycogen, whether during sprints or heavy lifting. (Bob Murray, Christine Rosenbloom, 2018) A carbohydrate-rich pre-workout drink can provide energy to exercise longer and recover quicker. Individuals should eat a post-workout snack with a balanced amount of carbohydrates to replenish glycogen stores. The brain also uses glucose for energy, with 20 to 25% of glycogen going toward powering the brain. (Manu S. Goyal, Marcus E. Raichle, 2018) Mental sluggishness or brain fog can develop when not enough carbohydrates are consumed. When glycogen stores are depleted through exercise or insufficient carbs, the body can feel fatigued and sluggish and perhaps experience mood and sleep disturbances. (Hugh S. Winwood-Smith, Craig E. Franklin 2, Craig R. White, 2017)
Diet
What foods are eaten and how much physical activity an individual does also influence glycogen production. The effects can be acute if one follows a low-carb diet, where carbohydrates, the primary source of glucose synthesis, are suddenly restricted.
Fatigue and Brain Fog
When first starting a low-carb diet, the body’s glycogen stores can be severely depleted and individuals may experience symptoms like fatigue and brain fog. (Kristen E. D’Anci et al., 2009)
The symptoms begin to subside once the body adjusts and renews its glycogen stores.
Water Weight
Any amount of weight loss can have the same effect on glycogen stores.
Initially, individuals may experience a rapid drop in weight.
Over time, weight may plateau and possibly increase.
The phenomenon is partly due to glycogen composition, which is also water. Rapid glycogen depletion at the onset of the diet triggers the loss of water weight. Over time, glycogen stores are renewed, and the water weight returns. When this happens, weight loss can stall or plateau. Fat loss can continue despite the short-term plateau effect.
Exercise
If undertaking a strenuous exercise routine, there are strategies to help avoid decreased performance that may be helpful:
Carbo-loading
Some athletes consume excessive amounts of carbohydrates before working out or competing.
Extra carbohydrates provide plenty of fuel.
The method has fallen out of favor as it can lead to excess water weight and digestive issues.
Glucose Gels
Energy gels containing glycogen can be consumed before or as needed during an event to increase blood glucose levels.
For example, energy chews are effective supplements for runners to help increase performance during extended runs.
Low-Carb Ketogenic Diet
Eating a diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates can put the body in a keto-adaptative state.
In this state, the body begins to access stored fat for energy and relies less on glucose for fuel.
At Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic, our providers use an integrated approach to create personalized care plans for each individual, often including Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine principles. Our goal is to restore health and function to the body.
Sports Nutrition and Sports Dietician
References
Murray, B., & Rosenbloom, C. (2018). Fundamentals of glycogen metabolism for coaches and athletes. Nutrition reviews, 76(4), 243–259. doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuy001
Goyal, M. S., & Raichle, M. E. (2018). Glucose Requirements of the Developing Human Brain. Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition, 66 Suppl 3(Suppl 3), S46–S49. doi.org/10.1097/MPG.0000000000001875
Winwood-Smith, H. S., Franklin, C. E., & White, C. R. (2017). Low-carbohydrate diet induces metabolic depression: a possible mechanism to conserve glycogen. American journal of physiology. Regulatory, integrative and comparative physiology, 313(4), R347–R356. doi.org/10.1152/ajpregu.00067.2017
D’Anci, K. E., Watts, K. L., Kanarek, R. B., & Taylor, H. A. (2009). Low-carbohydrate weight-loss diets. Effects on cognition and mood. Appetite, 52(1), 96–103. doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2008.08.009
For individuals wanting to eat pancakes regularly, are there ways to increase pancake nutrition and lower the calorie and carb counts so they can be included in a balanced diet?
Pancake Nutrition
This high-carbohydrate meal can provide enough energy to fuel a day’s physical activity.
Nutrition
The following nutrition information is provided for:
Pancakes made with whole-wheat flour offer more fiber and protein. The following is nutrition info for two or three whole-wheat pancakes (150g) made from a mix. (Child Nutrition Recipe Box. 2023)
Calories – 348
Fat – 15g
Sodium – 594mg
Carbohydrates – 45g
Fiber – 6g
Sugars – 6g
Protein – 12g
Carbohydrates
Pancakes will increase carbohydrate intake. The body uses carbohydrates as a primary fuel source, making them an important nutrient. However, most nutritionists suggest that individuals get their daily carbohydrates from nutrient-dense sources. Pancakes typically don’t fall into this category. White flour pancakes do not provide much fiber, and around 60 grams of carbohydrates are consumed in this meal. Substituting whole-wheat flour changes the amount to around 6g of fiber or 20% of the daily recommended value.
Fat
Pancakes can include dairy and eggs and are topped with butter that contributes a significant amount of fat. Pancake mix may contain trans fat. Some brands include partially hydrogenated oils. Health experts recommend that individuals limit or completely avoid foods containing trans fat. If the label ingredient list contains partially hydrogenated ingredients, it is recommended to avoid it. (MedlinePlus. 2022)
Protein
Pancakes may provide some protein, which varies based on the type of flour used. Some brands add protein powder to increase intake.
Vitamins and Minerals
Pancakes and ready mixes are generally made from enriched flour. Enriched foods are those that have had nutrients added during the manufacturing process. In most cases, the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals are stripped away, and then some are added back in during processing. Constantly eating enriched bread products limits diet-friendly fiber and nutrients. The enriched flour in pancakes and added sugar and syrup raise blood sugar levels rapidly and then generate hunger shortly afterward.
Calories
Total nutrition numbers also depend on serving size. The numbers on the label only apply to a single serving which is just two medium pancakes. Many individuals consume 3-4 medium pancakes and double the amount of butter and syrup as well. This can add up to more than 1,000 calories.
Benefits
Whole-wheat pancakes made with whole-grain flour are more nutritious than pancakes made with white flour and can be a delicious way to eat more whole grains. They can be topped with berries or other fruits for added fiber and nutrients.
Digestion
Whole-wheat pancakes made with whole-grain flour provide significant fiber for healthy digestion. Fiber helps with waste evacuation and has prebiotic compounds that fuel beneficial gut bacteria. (Joanne Slavin. 2013)
Improves Hunger Satisfaction
Whole-grain pancakes taste heartier and include fiber that keeps the body fuller longer than pancakes made with faster-digesting refined flour.
Decreases Risk of Heart Disease
A review of studies examining whole grain consumption and heart disease found that eating whole grains was associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. (Dagfinn Aune, et al., 2016)
Reduces Risk of Obesity
Research suggests that whole grain intake reduces the risk of obesity and could help individuals maintain a stable weight. (Katrina R. Kissock et al., 2021) The fiber will also help keep the fuller longer after the meal.
Slavin J. (2013). Fiber and prebiotics: mechanisms and health benefits. Nutrients, 5(4), 1417–1435. doi.org/10.3390/nu5041417
Aune, D., Keum, N., Giovannucci, E., Fadnes, L. T., Boffetta, P., Greenwood, D. C., Tonstad, S., Vatten, L. J., Riboli, E., & Norat, T. (2016). Whole grain consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all cause and cause specific mortality: systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective studies. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 353, i2716. doi.org/10.1136/bmj.i2716
Kissock, K. R., Neale, E. P., & Beck, E. J. (2021). Whole Grain Food Definition Effects on Determining Associations of Whole Grain Intake and Body Weight Changes: A Systematic Review. Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), 12(3), 693–707. doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmaa122
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Folic acid.
Walking is a great physical exercise activity that requires endurance. When walking for two hours or more, refueling energy stores can be done with portable walking energy snacks. These are foods that can be taken along and eaten while on the move. This includes fruits, vegetables, energy bars, trail mix, energy gels, and sports drinks that can replenish the body. However, depending on when an individual goes for a walk, they need to think about breakfast or lunch nutrition before engaging in the walk. This will help to get the most benefits from the snacks, as well as, what to have after the workout for recovery.
Walking Energy Snacks
Individuals walking for a long time will want a snack – before, during, and after. There are various options to choose from. Individuals may want to experiment with various snack and drink options to find the right balance of carbs, fat, and protein so that the body gets the energy it needs without feeling weighed down or hungry soon after. The ideal walking energy snacks should be healthy, full of energy, and easy to eat on the move.
Fruit Snacks
Fruit snacks are great for the all-natural carbohydrate burst.
Bananas are great for potassium.
Apples, oranges, and raisins are also recommended packable snacks.
For certain individuals, the fiber in some fruits can get digestion moving, requiring a restroom, so plan ahead.
Some individuals can eat fruit regularly but may have an upset stomach during walking, which is why experimentation may be necessary.
Energy Bars
Nutrition bars can provide vitamins and minerals and protein but can be high in calories.
Check the labels to choose the balance of ingredients that’s best for you.
Energy bars offer a healthy combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
They are convenient for a snack when on a walk.
Most products utilize peanuts/other nuts or soy for protein.
Individuals may want to avoid chocolate-covered bars, as they can melt.
Individuals can mix their own, buy in bulk, or pre-packaged.
Trail mix contains nuts for protein, raisins or other dried fruit for carbohydrates, and chocolate or carob for taste.
The salted varieties can help replace electrolytes.
Be aware of portion control, as trail mix is often high in fat and calories.
Energy Gels
Energy gels provide a carbohydrate boost designed for individuals doing endurance events and activities.
Energy gels need to be taken with water for carbohydrate digestion.
There are some that can be taken without water but may not provide as much energy.
For individuals that walk fast and breathe hard, energy gels can be safer than chewing and possibly choking.
Newer brands are trying to be natural and less sweet.
Energy and Sports Drinks
Water is not enough to keep the body hydrated on long walks.
Sports drinks with sugar and salt replenish H2O and electrolyte levels more thoroughly when walking for more than an hour helping to prevent dehydration and hyponatremia/low salt levels.
It is recommended to avoid:
High-caffeine energy drinks in small cans, as they have too much caffeine and not enough hydrating water.
Sports and energy drinks with additives and herbs, which do not help on walks, and look for those with salt and carbohydrate replacement.
Ankle Sprain Recovery
References
Francois, Monique E et al. “’Exercise snacks’ before meals: a novel strategy to improve glycaemic control in individuals with insulin resistance.” Diabetologia vol. 57,7 (2014): 1437-45. doi:10.1007/s00125-014-3244-6
Islam, Hashim, et al. “Exercise Snacks: A Novel Strategy to Improve Cardiometabolic Health.” Exercise and sport sciences review vol. 50,1 (2022): 31-37. doi:10.1249/JES.0000000000000275
Marangoni, Franca, et al. “Snacking in nutrition and health.” International Journal of food sciences and Nutrition vol. 70,8 (2019): 909-923. doi:10.1080/09637486.2019.1595543
McCubbin, Alan J et al. “Sports Dietitians Australia Position Statement: Nutrition for Exercise in Hot Environments.” International Journal of sports nutrition and exercise metabolism vol. 30,1 (2020): 83-98. doi:10.1123/ijsnem.2019-0300
Moore, Daniel R et al. “Walking or body weight squat “activity snacks” increase dietary amino acid utilization for myofibrillar protein synthesis during prolonged sitting.” Journal of applied physiology (Bethesda, Md.: 1985) vol. 133,3 (2022): 777-785. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00106.2022
Njike, Valentine Yanchou, et al. “Snack Food, Satiety, and Weight.” Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.) vol. 7,5 866-78. 15 Sep. 2016, doi:10.3945/an.115.009340
A healthy diet and proper nutrition are essential for the body’s overall health and physical wellness. Improper nutrition can lead to the body’s inability to repair muscle, affect muscle density, affect fluid levels in the cells, organ function, and nerve function. Individuals who receive chiropractic treatment regularly tend to experience fewer colds and illnesses, reduced aches and pains, and improved mood overall. There are nutritional options and certain foods individuals are recommended to follow to get the most benefits from the chiropractic treatment. A healthy diet, proper hydration, exercise, and rest can help keep the body on the road to optimal health.
Poor Diet Inflammation
A poor diet and bad eating habits cause the body not to operate efficiently. The body becomes weary and tired, causing it to break down. Those who favor processed foods, sugar, and empty calories that have no nutritional value put their bodies at risk for inflammation. Inflammation can lead to muscle pain, joint pain, and other health conditions. Chronic inflammation over time can lead to:
DNA damage
Tissue death
Internal scarring
All are linked to the development of several diseases, including cancer.
Physical Wellness Foods
Individuals begin to feel much better and healthier when eating whole foods. It can be hard to make the switch for those that have been eating poorly for years, but once begun, most individuals feel better almost immediately.
Steamed Vegetables
Eat a variety of tolerable vegetables.
Steaming improves the utilization/availability of the food substances and reduces the irritating residue in the gut, allowing it to restore itself.
For anti-inflammation, it is recommended to avoid tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, and bell peppers.
Nuts
Any nut that is tolerable except peanuts, like almonds, cashews, brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and walnuts are all recommended.
Legumes
Any legumes tolerable like split peas, lentils, kidney beans, pinto beans, soybeans, mung beans, garbanzo beans, and adzuki beans.
Grains
It is recommended to eat one to two cups of cooked grains per day.
These include millet, basmati or brown rice, quinoa, barley, buckwheat, oatmeal, and amaranth.
It is recommended not to eat wheat, whole grain, or otherwise.
No bread, plan meals so that bread is not required, as bread can raise sugar levels and increase an inflammatory marker.
Fish
Deep-sea fish is preferred that includes salmon, halibut, cod, sardines, tuna, mackerel.
The fish should be poached, baked, steamed, or broiled.
No shellfish or swordfish.
Chicken and Turkey
Eat only white meat and do not eat the skin.
The chicken should be baked, broiled, or steamed.
Free-range or organic chicken is preferable.
Fruit
Raw is best, can be baked at a low temp and made into juice.
One of the essential things that chiropractors recommend is to cut out artificial sweeteners and excess sugar.
Small amounts of maple syrup, rice syrup, barley syrup, and honey can be used.
Sugar cravings can be avoided by eating protein with each meal.
Water and Herbal Teas
Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day.
Drink 2 to 4 cups of herbal tea, sipped slowly in the evening.
Body Composition
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are designed to cure bacterial infections by killing invading bacteria. However, antibiotics don’t separate the good bacteria from the bad. As a result, antibiotic therapy of only three to four days can alter gut microbe population and diversity. Studies have shown that children are particularly at risk as reduced gut bacteria diversity has been linked with childhood obesity. For this reason, make sure to follow a physician’s instructions when using antibiotics. Spending time outdoors regularly can help increase the body’s exposure to microbial diversity. Gardening is a great way to get dirty with soil to reacquaint the gut flora and maintain the body’s physical wellness.
References
Fritsche, Kevin L. “The science of fatty acids and inflammation.” Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.) vol. 6,3 293S-301S. 15 May. 2015, doi:10.3945/an.114.006940
Kapczuk, Patrycja et al. “Żywność wysokoprzetworzona i jej wpływ na zdrowie dzieci i osób dorosłych” [Highly processed food and its effect on health of children and adults]. Postepy biochemii vol. 66,1 23-29. 23 Mar. 2020, doi:10.18388/pb.2020_309
Ricker, Mari Anoushka, and William Christian Haas. “Anti-Inflammatory Diet in Clinical Practice: A Review.” Nutrition in clinical practice: official publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition vol. 32,3 (2017): 318-325. doi:10.1177/0884533617700353
Serafini, Mauro, and Ilaria Peluso. “Functional Foods for Health: The Interrelated Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Role of Fruits, Vegetables, Herbs, Spices and Cocoa in Humans.” Current pharmaceutical design vol. 22,44 (2016): 6701-6715. doi:10.2174/1381612823666161123094235
Wahlqvist, Mark L. “Food structure is critical for optimal health.” Food & function vol. 7,3 (2016): 1245-50. doi:10.1039/c5fo01285f
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