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Lactose Intolerance ;
Lactose intolerance is a condition in which the body cannot digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and milk products. Lactose intolerance is caused by a lack of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down lactose. When lactose is not broken down, it is absorbed into the bloodstream undigested. This can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, cramps, and diarrhea. Lactose intolerance is a common condition, affecting up to 30 million Americans. It is more common in people of African American, Hispanic, and Asian descent.
What is Lactose?
Lactose is a sugar molecule that is found in milk and milk products. It is made up of two smaller sugar molecules, glucose and galactose. Lactose is broken down into these two sugars when it is digested.
Lactose Monohydrate
Lactose monohydrate is a disaccharide composed of two simple sugars, glucose and galactose. It is the most common form of lactose, the sugar found in milk. Lactose monohydrate is a white, odorless, and nearly tasteless powder that is soluble in water. It is used as a sweetener and as a filler in food products.
Formation of Lactose Monohydrate
When lactose is dissolved in water, it exists as a stable lactose monohydrate. In this form, the lactose molecule is composed of a glucose molecule and a galactose molecule bonded together. The water molecules are bound to the sugar molecules, forming a crystal lattice. The lactose monohydrate crystals are small and white, and they dissolve in water to form a clear solution.
Uses of Lactose Monohydrate
Lactose monohydrate is a sugar that is found in milk and other dairy products. It is used as a sweetener and as a stabilizer in food products. It is also used in some medical treatments.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a condition that results when the body is unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. Lactose intolerance is caused by a lack of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down lactose. When lactose is not broken down, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Lactose intolerance is a common condition, affecting up to 65% of the world’s population. It is more common in people of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent than in people of European descent. Lactose intolerance can also occur in people who have a condition called celiac disease, which is a gluten intolerance.
There is no cure for lactose intolerance, but there are ways to manage the condition. People with lactose intolerance can try to avoid dairy products, or they can take lactase supplements to help break down lactose. They can also eat foods that are low in lactose, such as yogurt and hard cheeses.
