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Why does fructose lead to a slower rise in blood sugar compared to other carbohydrates?

  1. It is digested more slowly

  2. It is a disaccharide

  3. It is metabolized in the liver

  4. It is stored as glycogen

The correct answer is: It is digested more slowly

Fructose leads to a slower rise in blood sugar primarily because it is metabolized in the liver, which differentiates it from other carbohydrates. Unlike glucose, which can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream and causes a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, fructose needs to be processed by liver cells before it can enter the general circulation. This metabolic pathway means that fructose does not contribute immediately to blood glucose levels, resulting in a slower and more gradual rise in blood sugar. Additionally, it is worth noting that fructose's unique metabolic process can lead to other outcomes in terms of energy utilization and fat storage, making its impact on blood sugar distinct. Other options might imply different mechanisms or digestion processes that do not specifically address fructose's metabolic pathway as the key reason for its slower effect on blood glucose levels.