Which Monosaccharides are Indigestible to Humans?

  • Thread starter bomba923
  • Start date
In summary, it is possible for humans to metabolize all monosaccharides that can fit into glycolysis, but there are some monosaccharides that cannot be broken down because our bodies lack the necessary enzymes. These un-metabolizable monosaccharides may have certain structural characteristics that prevent them from being recognized by our enzymes. However, any monosaccharide naturally found in food can be converted into energy if we can break down the polysaccharide it is a part of. Certain lab-made monosaccharides may also be un-metabolizable, but this is not applicable to monosaccharides found in food.
  • #1
bomba923
763
0
For example, lactose-intolerant humans cannot process/digest lactose.
Neither can we digest cellulose.

--------------------------------------
But for the most "tolerant" humans,
are there certain monosaccharides that humans cannot digest?

*What monosaccharides are inedible to humans?
(and not just for those who are lactose-intolerant)
:redface:
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
They are still edible, but just not metabolizable. Cellulose is a polymer.
 
  • #3
quasi426 said:
They are still edible, but just not metabolizable. Cellulose is a polymer.

Yes, I know, cellulose (a polysaccharide) is a polymer of glucose :rolleyes:

But my question is:

What monosaccharides cannot be metabolized by humans?

Not considering special "-intolerant" types, which monosaccharides simply cannot be metabolized by humans?
:blusing: Even among the most *tolerant* types?
 
Last edited:
  • #4
Any monosaccharide that can be converted so it can fit into glycolysis can be metabolized. None of the monosaccharides naturally found in food are un-metabolizable. If we can break down the polysaccharide, we can find a way of converting all the monosaccharides into energy (although sometimes more and sometimes less than glucose). There probably are monosaccharides you can make in a lab that we can't digest because we don't have the enzymes to convert them into something usable.
 
  • #5
does it have anything to do with L or D structure?the one that cannot be metabolised are the one that are not recognised by the normal body enzymes (or due to lack of that enzyme)...and since they're specific for one kind of structure...correct me if I'm wrong!
 
  • #6
By the way,

*What features would an un-metabolizable monosaccharide possess?

*What (structural) characteristics might cause a monosachharide to be un-metabolizable?

:smile:
 

Related to Which Monosaccharides are Indigestible to Humans?

What are inedible monosaccharides?

Inedible monosaccharides are simple sugars that cannot be broken down and used as a source of energy by the human body. They are often found in plants and other organisms, but are not considered a part of the human diet.

Why are inedible monosaccharides not safe for consumption?

Inedible monosaccharides may not be safe for consumption because they can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and gas. Additionally, some inedible monosaccharides can be toxic to humans if consumed in large quantities.

What are some examples of inedible monosaccharides?

Some examples of inedible monosaccharides include xylose, arabinose, and ribose. These sugars are commonly found in plants and are used for structural purposes rather than as a source of energy.

Can inedible monosaccharides be converted into edible sugars?

Yes, inedible monosaccharides can be converted into edible sugars through various biochemical processes. For example, xylose can be converted into xylitol, a natural sweetener, through a fermentation process.

Are there any health benefits to consuming inedible monosaccharides?

There are no known health benefits to consuming inedible monosaccharides. In fact, consuming large amounts of these sugars may have negative effects on health, such as intestinal discomfort and toxicity. It is important to stick to a balanced diet that includes only edible sugars for optimal health.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
19
Views
2K
Replies
20
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
33
Views
6K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
15
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
7K
Replies
11
Views
4K
Back
Top