What does the liver convert fructose and galactose into?

The liver plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism, specifically in handling simple sugars like fructose and galactose. When fructose and galactose enter the liver, they undergo conversion processes to eventually be transformed into glucose or glucose-related compounds which can then be stored as glycogen. Glycogen is the body's stored form of glucose, used for energy during periods of fasting or increased physical activity.

This transformation is vital because glucose is a primary energy source for the body's cells. If glycogen stores are full, excess fructose and galactose may then contribute to fatty acid synthesis, but the initial conversion in the liver primarily focuses on producing glycogen. Understanding this process is fundamental for grasping how the body regulates blood sugar levels and manages energy supply.