simplesugar

Simplesugar is a term sometimes used to refer to simple carbohydrates, comprising monosaccharides and disaccharides—molecules built from one or two sugar units. In technical literature, the form "simple sugar" is more common; "simplesugar" may appear as a brand name or product label, but the underlying concept describes small, quickly absorbed carbohydrates.

Monosaccharides are the simplest sugars and cannot be hydrolyzed into smaller units. Common examples include glucose, fructose, and galactose. Disaccharides consist of two monosaccharide units linked together and include sucrose (glucose + fructose), lactose (glucose + galactose), and maltose (two glucose units). In aqueous solution, simple sugars often exist as cyclic forms and play central roles in energy metabolism, being rapidly absorbed in the small intestine and entering cellular pathways such as glycolysis.

Dietary sources of simple sugars come from both naturally occurring and added sugars. Naturally occurring examples are found in fruits, milk, and honey, while added sugars are used to sweeten many processed foods and beverages. The rapid absorption of simple sugars can lead to quick spikes in blood glucose and insulin, which is a consideration in managing energy balance and metabolic health.

Health and dietary guidance generally recommend moderating intake of free or added sugars. Excess consumption is associated with dental caries, weight gain, and potential long-term metabolic risks. Many health organizations provide guidelines on limiting added sugars to a portion of daily energy intake, with more conservative targets suggested for additional health benefits. See also monosaccharide, disaccharide, and carbohydrate.