What are monosaccharides and disaccharides classified as?

Monosaccharides and disaccharides are classified as simple carbohydrates because they consist of basic sugar units. Monosaccharides are the most basic form of carbohydrates, containing one sugar molecule, such as glucose or fructose. Disaccharides, on the other hand, are formed by the combination of two monosaccharide molecules, examples being sucrose (table sugar) and lactose (milk sugar).

Simple carbohydrates are rapidly digested and absorbed by the body, leading to quick spikes in blood sugar levels. This classification contrasts with complex carbohydrates, which consist of long chains of sugar molecules and include starches and fibers. Fibers are generally not classified as sugars and are rather indigestible components of plant foods. Polysaccharides, another type of carbohydrate, consist of many monosaccharide units linked together and are classified as complex carbohydrates. Therefore, the correct classification of monosaccharides and disaccharides as simple carbohydrates is key to understanding how carbohydrates function in nutrition and metabolism.