Disaccharides are carbohydrates composed of two monosaccharide units linked by glycosidic bonds. The three main types of disaccharides are:
1. Sucrose (Glucose + Fructose):
Found in sugarcane, fruits, and honey.
Produced through photosynthesis in plants, where glucose and fructose molecules combine.
2. Lactose (Glucose + Galactose):
Found in milk and dairy products.
Synthesized in mammary glands of mammals and provides energy to infants.
3. Maltose (Glucose + Glucose):
Found in germinating grains, malted foods, and beer production.
Produced during starch digestion by the action of amylase enzymes.