Galactosa is a type of sugar, specifically a monosaccharide, that is found in milk and dairy products. It is one of the building blocks of lactose, the sugar present in milk. When lactose is digested, it breaks down into glucose and galactose, which can then be used by the body for energy. In the body, galactosa is converted into glucose through a series of chemical reactions. This process is essential for individuals who consume dairy products, as it allows them to utilize the energy stored in galactose. However, some people have a condition called galactosemia, which impairs their ability to metabolize galactosa properly.