digluconic

Digluconic refers to a salt or ester derived from digluconic acid. Digluconic acid, also known as 2-keto-D-gluconic acid, is an organic compound that is an oxidation product of glucose. It is a dicarboxylic acid, meaning it possesses two carboxyl groups. In biological contexts, digluconic acid is an intermediate in the metabolism of carbohydrates.

The term "digluconic" is most commonly encountered in the name of certain chemical compounds, such as gluconate salts. For example, calcium digluconate is a salt of digluconic acid and calcium. These compounds are often used in dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals as sources of calcium, as they are generally well-absorbed by the body. They can also be found in certain food products as additives.

Other digluconate salts may exist depending on the cation involved, such as zinc digluconate, which is used in some lozenges and supplements for its purported immune-supporting properties. The specific properties and applications of a digluconate compound are dependent on the cation it is paired with. The digluconate anion itself is a relatively stable organic molecule.