What is the main sugar found in milk?

Lactose is the primary sugar found in milk, making it a significant carbohydrate component in dairy products. It is a disaccharide formed from one molecule of glucose and one molecule of galactose. The presence of lactose in milk gives it its characteristic sweetness and plays a crucial role in nutrition, particularly for infants and young children, who rely heavily on milk as a dietary staple.

Lactose also impacts the digestion process, as some individuals may experience lactose intolerance due to a deficiency in lactase, the enzyme required to break down lactose in the digestive system.

Glucose, while a simple sugar found in various foods, is not the main sugar found in milk. Fructose is primarily found in fruits and honey, and sucrose, commonly known as table sugar, is derived from sugarcane or sugar beets and isn't a significant component of milk. This understanding reinforces the unique composition of milk and its role in various diets.