Ketoses can behave as reducing sugars under basic conditions because they can be converted to aldoses.

Although ketones are generally less readily oxidized, the notes explain that ketoses can be converted to aldoses under basic conditions through an enediol reaction. The resulting aldose can participate in reduction of Benedict reagent. **Key takeaway:** Ketoses can show reducing behavior under the stated conditions. **Glossary:** Enediol reaction: base-catalyzed sugar transformation described in the material.