galactose
1 of 1noun/ɡəˈlæktoʊs/
Forms:galactoses
1
a sugar found in milk and some plants that helps make lactose
Galactose is a type of sugar, classified as a monosaccharide, that is less commonly found in nature compared to glucose and fructose. It naturally occurs in dairy products like milk and yogurt, as well as in certain fruits and vegetables. Galactose is less sweet than glucose and fructose and plays a role in making lactose, the sugar found in milk. Once ingested, galactose is broken down in the body and changed into glucose, which serves as a primary source of energy for cells.
- Galactose is a sugar in milk and certain plants.
- In the body, galactose is involved in the metabolism of lactose from dairy.
- Dairy products contain galactose as a component of their natural sugars.
- Galactose, along with glucose, is a building block of carbohydrates in foods.
- Galactose is present in various plant-based foods, contributing to their sweetness.
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