Have you ever wondered what exactly causes discomfort after eating dairy? The answer often lies with lactose.
In simple terms, lactose is the natural sugar found in milk. It’s what gives milk a slightly sweet taste.
Understanding this basic component of dairy is the first step to managing lactose intolerance.
Lactose: The “Milk Sugar”
Lactose is a type of carbohydrate. Specifically, it’s a “dissaccharide,” which means it’s made of two smaller sugar molecules joined together.
These two smaller sugars are glucose and galactose. Think of them as two Lego bricks joined to form one larger lactose brick.
This sugar is present in all types of animal milk: cow, goat, sheep, and even human breast milk.
Where is Lactose Found?
The most obvious place is in milk itself. But because milk and its derivatives are widely used, lactose shows up in many other foods.
You’ll find it in yogurt, cheese, butter, ice cream, and cream.
Beyond these, it’s often a “hidden” ingredient in processed foods. Think of bread, processed meats, some sauces, and even medications.
The Role of Lactase in Digestion
For your body to use lactose as energy, it needs to be broken down. That’s where an enzyme called lactase comes in.
Lactase is produced in your small intestine. Its job is to act like tiny scissors, cutting the lactose (the big sugar brick) into its two smaller parts: glucose and galactose.
Once separated, glucose and galactose are easily absorbed into your bloodstream. Your body then uses them for energy.
What Happens with Lactose Intolerance?
If your body doesn’t produce enough lactase, the lactose can’t be broken down properly.
Instead, this undigested lactose travels to your large intestine. There, bacteria ferment it.
This fermentation process is what causes the uncomfortable symptoms. Think of it as bacteria having a party with the undigested sugar, producing gas and other byproducts.
Why Is It Important?
Knowing what lactose is helps you understand lactose intolerance. It explains why dairy can cause issues for some people.
It also empowers you to make informed food choices. You can identify which foods to avoid or manage with lactase supplements.
Essentially, lactose is the key player in milk’s composition, and lactase is the enzyme crucial for its digestion. When they don’t meet correctly, discomfort can arise.