Simple sugar

Definition

Simple sugars, also known as monosaccharides, are the most basic form of carbohydrates consisting of single sugar molecules. They are the building blocks for more complex carbohydrates and provide immediate energy when consumed.

Related terms

Glucose:

A simple sugar that is an important energy source in living organisms and a component of many carbohydrates.

Fructose:

A simple sugar found in honey and fruit that is sweeter than glucose and often used in food processing.

Glycosidic Bond:

A type of covalent bond that joins a carbohydrate (sugar) molecule to another molecule, which can be another carbohydrate or a different type of molecule entirely