This is one of the types of sugar molecules that make up lactose, the main type of sugar in milk and all products that contain milk. Galactose is found in milk and all milk products such as cottage cheese, yogurt, ice cream, buttermilk, and cheese. Galactose is also in sugar beets and a few other fruits and vegetables. It is also found in fillers used in some packaged foods and some medications.

The milk sugar lactose is broken down in the digestive tract into two smaller sugars, galactose and glucose. Galactose is then changed into glucose so it can be used as fuel for the body. Galactose is also made by the body.