Question

Identify a monosaccharide that fits each of the following descriptions: a. found in high blood levels in diabetes b. obtained as a hydrolysis product of lactose c. is the sweetest of the monosaccharides

Short answer

a. Glucose b. Galactose c. Fructose

Step-by-step solution

Identify the monosaccharide found in high blood levels in diabetes

The monosaccharide that is found in high blood levels in diabetes is glucose. High levels of glucose in the blood characterize hyperglycemia, which is common in diabetes.

Identify the monosaccharide obtained as a hydrolysis product of lactose

Lactose, a disaccharide, is hydrolyzed into two monosaccharides: glucose and galactose. Therefore, the monosaccharide obtained from the hydrolysis of lactose is galactose.

Identify the sweetest monosaccharide

Among monosaccharides, fructose is known to be the sweetest. It is much sweeter than glucose and galactose.

Key concepts

Glucose

Glucose is a simple sugar and an important carbohydrate in biology. It is a primary source of energy for cells. When you eat foods containing carbohydrates, your body breaks them down into glucose.
High levels of glucose in the blood can indicate diabetes mellitus, a chronic condition where the body fails to regulate glucose properly.
Common symptoms of high blood glucose include excessive thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue.
Managing glucose levels through diet, exercise, and medication is crucial for those with diabetes.

Galactose

Galactose is another simple sugar but is less common in the human diet. It is usually derived from lactose, which is found in milk and dairy products.
When lactose is broken down by the enzyme lactase, it produces glucose and galactose.
This process is essential for digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Unlike glucose, galactose is not used directly as energy but is converted into glucose by the liver.

Fructose

Fructose is known as the sweetest of all natural sugars. You can find tremendous amounts of it in fruits, honey, and root vegetables.
It is often used as a sweetener in the food industry, particularly in soft drinks and sweets.
Fructose is different from glucose as it is processed in the liver. Excessive consumption of fructose has been linked to fatty liver disease and other metabolic disorders.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that impacts how your body uses glucose for energy.
There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Type 2 diabetes is often associated with lifestyle factors and insulin resistance.
Managing diabetes involves monitoring blood glucose levels, diet regulation, and medications.

Lactose Hydrolysis

Lactose hydrolysis is the process of breaking down lactose into its constituent monosaccharides: glucose and galactose.
This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme lactase, which is essential for digesting dairy products.
People with lactose intolerance lack sufficient amounts of lactase, causing digestive problems.
Lactose-free products often undergo lactose hydrolysis to make them easier to digest.