Sucrose

Disaccharide composed of one glucose and one fructose molecule, commonly called table sugar. Extracted from sugar cane or sugar beet, it is ubiquitous in processed foods. Once digested, it is split into glucose and fructose by an intestinal enzyme (sucrase). Excessive consumption is associated with increased risk of dental caries, weight gain, insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease. To be distinguished from sugars naturally present in whole fruits, accompanied by fibre and micronutrients.