Disaccharides are a type of carbohydrate made up of two simple sugars, known as monosaccharides, linked together. Common examples include sucrose, which is found in table sugar, and lactose, the sugar present in milk. Disaccharides are important sources of energy for our bodies and are broken down into their monosaccharide components during digestion. When we consume disaccharides, enzymes in our digestive system help split them into simpler sugars. This process allows our bodies to absorb and use the energy they provide. Understanding disaccharides is essential for grasping how our diet impacts our health and energy levels.