Glykodatabaser

Glykodatabaser is a Swedish term that translates literally to “glycogen bases” or “carbohydrate bases.” It is used primarily in the context of nutrition and diet planning to describe foods that provide a high proportion of their calories from carbohydrates rather than from protein or fat. The word is derived from the Greek root glyco-, meaning sugar, combined with the Swedish word baser, meaning bases or foundations.

In practice, glykodatabaser refer to foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, legumes, starchy vegetables, and certain fruits. These foods supply the body’s main fuel source through glucose, which is required for cellular energy metabolism. Unlike simple sugars, complex carbohydrates are typically associated with a slower, steadier release of glucose, lower glycemic indices, and a higher content of dietary fiber and micronutrients. This makes glykodatabaser useful in dietary patterns such as Mediterranean, Nordic, or plant‑based diets.

Nutritionists who emphasize balanced macronutrient distribution often recommend that glykodatabaser provide approximately 45–60 % of total daily energy intake. In regenerative diets aimed at promoting gut health, the inclusion of glykodatabaser can help sustain beneficial gut bacteria, which ferment dietary fiber into short‑chain fatty acids. In athletic nutrition, they provide readily available energy for endurance training and recovery.

While glykodatabaser can be beneficial, excessive consumption without adequate physical activity can contribute to weight gain and metabolic disturbances. Therefore, the quality of the carbohydrate source, portion size, and overall dietary balance are important when incorporating glykodatabaser into meal planning.