Galactose

Galactose is a type of sugar that is less sweet than glucose and fructose. It is considered a monosaccharide, one of the simplest forms of sugar. Galactose is commonly found in lactose, the sugar in milk and milk products.

Sources of Galactose

Galactose is primarily found in food substances that contain lactose. These include milk and milk products like cheese, yogurt, and butter. It can also be found in certain fruits and vegetables, and is used in some synthetic sweeteners.

Metabolism of Galactose

When consumed, galactose is converted into glucose by the liver. This process is facilitated by a series of enzymes. The glucose can then be used by the body for energy.

Galactosemia

Galactosemia is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to metabolize galactose. This can lead to a buildup of galactose in the blood, which can cause a variety of health problems, including liver disease, kidney failure, and brain damage.

See Also

• Glucose
• Fructose
• Lactose
• Galactosemia

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