1. Different molecular structures:

The molecular formula of lactose is C12H20O10, which is a disaccharide. The molecular formula of galactose is C6H12O6, which is a monosaccharide.

2. The distribution in animals and plants is different:

Galactose is contained in both animals and plants; lactose is unique to animal milk and does not contain lactose in plants.

3. Galactose is one of the components of lactose:

Lactose is the dehydration condensation of one molecule of glucose and one molecule of galactose, that is, galactose is one of the raw materials of lactose. .

Galactose is a simple sugar found in dairy products or sugar beets. Galactose is a component of lactose in mammalian milk, a polysaccharide composed of D-galactose found in snails, frog eggs, and cow lungs. It is usually found in the brain and nervous tissue as D-galactoside and is also an important component of some glycoproteins.

Galactose is commonly found in the vegetable industry as a polysaccharide in various plant gums. For example, K-carrageenan from red algae is a polysaccharide composed of D-galactose and 3,6-endo-ether-D-galactose. Free galactose exists in ivy berries

Extended information:

The functions of lactose:

1. Fermented milk is essential and provides a carbon source. Lactose is broken down into galactose and glucose under the action of lactic acid bacteria.

2. Provide nutrition and energy to humans. Galactose has important effects on mammalian neurodevelopment. Lactose facilitates calcium absorption. Lactase deficiency causes lactose intolerance.

3. It has an important impact on the tissue state of dairy products. Condensed milk production, the effect of lactose crystallization on the taste of condensed milk. Solubility of milk powder.

4. It has an important impact on the color and flavor of dairy products. Browning reaction. Flavor develops after fermentation.

5. Promote calcium absorption:

Lactose is not easily broken down in the intestines and can remain in the intestines for a long time. Lactose forms organic acids after the action of lactase, which will lower the intestinal PH value and promote the absorption of calcium ions under the action of acid. In addition, the glucose formed after the decomposition of lactose also promotes calcium absorption.

6. Intestinal regulation:

The lactose that has not been decomposed by lactase in the small intestine will move to the large intestine. The microorganisms living in the large intestine will use lactose, which is responsible for the bacteria. The majority of lactic acid bacteria and Bifidobacterium will convert lactose into lactic acid and acetic acid, which will lower the pH value of the intestine. These organic acids will stimulate intestinal peristalsis, so they have intestinal regulation effects and can prevent infant constipation.

Reference materials:

Baidu Encyclopedia-Lactose

Baidu Encyclopedia-Galactose