| Lactose | |||||
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Lactose is a type of naturally occuring sugar found in milk and milk products. Lactose is the main carbohydrate in dairy products.
Lactose is a disaccharide, which means it is made up of two monosaccharides molecules - glucose and galactose.
- Lactose makes up about 30-50% of milk's energy value
- Lactose is present in all dairy products
- Yoghurt and some cheeses have less lactose, making them easier to digest for those with lactose intolerance
- The lactose in sheep's cheese and goat's cheese are more tolerated by those with lactose intolerance as they contain very little lactose
If lactose remains undigested when foods rich in this sugar are eaten (milk and dairy products), then it is deemed that there is a lactose intolerance. Lactase is the enzyme that breaks down lactose into the monosaccharides (the simple sugars) of galactose and glucose so that lactose can be digested properly.
Last reviewed: 14 January 2007 || Last updated: 30 September 2007
Related Articles
references
- Marieb EM, Hoehn K. Human Anatomy & Physiology. 7th edition, 2006. Benjamin Cummings Publishing
- Rolfes SR, Pinna K, Whitney E. Understanding Normal and Clinical Nutrition. 7th Edition, 2005. Brooks Cole Publishing
- Tortora GJ, Derrickson BH. Principles of Anatomy & Physiology. 11th edition, 2005. Wiley Publishing
To learn more, go to the the following web sites:
- The Gut Foundation (Australia)
- GastroNet Australia - Lactose Intolerance
- Breastfeeding Australia - Lactose Intolerance and Breastfeeding
- National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse (USA)
NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
