Definition: Glycogen is the main way the body stores glucose for later use. It is a large molecule produced in the liver, although it is also stored in the muscle and fat cells. After carbohydrate ingestion, more glycogen will be produced, and then released as blood glucose levels fall. Low-carb diets initially deplete glycogen storage, although to some extent any weight loss diet has the same effect. Since glycogen molecules have quite a bit of water attached, some "water weight" is lost at the beginning of any weight loss diet. The glycogen stores are partially replaced subsequently.
Source:Glycogen storage: illusions of easy weight loss, excessive weight regain, and distortions in estimates of body composition SN Kreitzman, AY Coxon and KF Szaz American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol 56, 292S-293S Abstract
Source:Glycogen storage: illusions of easy weight loss, excessive weight regain, and distortions in estimates of body composition SN Kreitzman, AY Coxon and KF Szaz American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol 56, 292S-293S Abstract
Pronunciation: GLY ko jen
Also Known As: Glycogen is sometimes confused with the hormone glucagon, which is also important in carbohydrate metabolism and blood glucose control.
Common Misspellings: Glycagen
