Glycogen Storage Disease and the Ketogenic Diet

Glycogen storage disease is a condition of dysfunctional glycogen metabolism. Typically, a diet high in carbohydrates is recommended for individuals with GSD (to prevent hypoglycemia). But, what if there was another way to provide the body with a fuel source? That’s where the ketogenic diet might be able to help! What is Glycogen Storage Disease?Glycogen is a glucose polysaccharide (a molecule made from many glucose molecules bound together) and is stored in the liver and muscle. Glycogenesis is the process by which your body adds chains of glucose to glycogen molecules to store excess glucose. Glycogenolysis is the process of breaking down glycogen molecules into glucose for energy usage by the body.Individuals with glycogen storage disease cannot properly store glycogen. When blood sugar levels are low, most people are able to tap into their glycogen stores to release glucose and maintain healthy glucose levels. Unfortunately, this process is dysfunctional in individuals with GSD. [1] Glycogen Storage Disease Symptoms & TypesWhile the signs and symptoms for each type of GSD vary, the most common symptoms […]…