 |
|
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
|
|
galactose
A monosaccharide or simple sugar that is essential in our dietand found in abundance in the diet, especially in dairy products, where it co-exists with lactose. People who are lactose-intolerant may also be lacking in galactose, however it can easily be obtained from other foods, including many fruits and vegetables. Before it can be utilized by the body for energy, it must be transformed into glucose by the liver. It is also a building block of carbohydrate chains associated with glycoproteins and glycolipids. In the human body, glucose is changed into galactose in order to enable the mammary glands to secrete lactose.
Related category
• BIOCHEMISTRY
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)