What is the sugar found in milk called?

The sugar found in milk is known as lactose. Lactose is a disaccharide, meaning it consists of two simpler sugar molecules: glucose and galactose. This sugar is unique to milk and is found in varying amounts in products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.

Lactose is important for providing energy, especially for infants who rely on milk as their primary source of nutrition. Additionally, the enzyme lactase is responsible for breaking down lactose in the digestive system. Some individuals may have a reduced ability to produce lactase, leading to lactose intolerance, which can result in difficulty digesting dairy products.

The other sugars mentioned, such as sucrose, glucose, and fructose, do exist in various food items but are not the predominant sugar in milk. Sucrose is commonly found in table sugar, glucose is a simple sugar present in many carbohydrates, and fructose is primarily found in fruits. Understanding the specific role of lactose in milk can highlight its importance in nutrition and digestion.