Compare and contrast the three groups of carbohydrates: monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides


Monosaccharides (glucose, fructose, and galactose) are the simplest forms (simple sugars) of carbohydrate. They require no digestion and are absorbed directly into the bloodstream from the small intestine. Disaccharides (lactose, maltose, and sucrose) are pairs of simple sugars. They must be converted to simple sugars before they can be absorbed. Polysaccharides (starch, glycogen, and fiber) are complex carbohydrates. They are found in plants and vegetables. These are very difficult to break down, and some fiber cannot be broken down.

Nutritional Science

You might also like to view...

The insoluble fiber that provides the main structural component of plant cell walls is

A) cellulose. B) mucilage. C) pectin. D) lignin.

Nutritional Science

Absorption efficiency of vitamin D supplements is markedly improved when they are taken

a. with a large meal. b. with a small meal. c. with orange juice. d. on an empty stomach.

Nutritional Science

A recurrent and serious form of heartburn is called

A. atrophic gastritis. B. eosinophilic esophagitis. C. gastroesophageal reflux disease. D. pernicious anemia.

Nutritional Science

By consuming a variety of grains what do we contribute to our diet?

a. Vitamin D b. Potassium c. Calcium d. Riboflavin e. Vitamin C

Nutritional Science