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Lactose is one of the compounds present in many types of foods we consume daily. However, there are still many individuals who remain unclear about this compound. So what exactly is Lactose? Why do some people experience lactose intolerance? Let's shed some light on this issue in the following article!
Concept of Lactose
Lactose is a sugar compound primarily found in milk and dairy products. All mammals, including humans, nurse their offspring with milk, which contains lactose. The body has the ability to absorb lactose with the help of the enzyme lactase. This enzyme breaks down lactose into its two monosaccharide units, glucose and galactose, for easier absorption by the body.
Thanks to the enzyme Lactase, Lactose is broken down into glucose and galactose
What is the function of Lactose?
Although it only accounts for 2-8% of the total milk volume, Lactose has many amazing functions for our bodies. Do you know what these functions of Lactose are?
Providing the raw material for energy conversion in the body
Every living cell in the human body always needs to be supplied with nutrients to release energy. One of the indispensable compounds for this metabolic process is glucose.
Glucose exists in the human body in the form of glucose - a monosaccharide separated from Lactose. Therefore, the first but most important role of Lactose is to provide the raw material for energy conversion to maintain and develop life.
Supporting a healthy digestive system
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), probiotics are living microorganisms that, when present in a certain amount in the intestines, will compete with harmful bacteria. At the same time, they secrete enzymes and proteins that destroy, prevent the proliferation of these harmful bacteria.
Not only providing nutrients, Lactose also promotes beneficial bacteria, helping the digestive system function more efficiently. Especially for the immature digestive system in children, Lactose contributes to protecting against the invasion of harmful bacteria, parasites, and helps the intestinal mucosa of children healthier.
Lactose contributes to brain tissue and nervous system development
Galactose is a monosaccharide separated from Lactose. This is considered the essential basic material for the synthesis of many molecules in the body. In particular, Galactose is integrated into galactolipids, which are important structures of the central nervous system.
Therefore, one of the most important functions of Lactose is to participate in the formation of brain tissue and the nervous system of children in the early years. According to research by scientists, children under 12 months of age need to supplement a large amount of Lactose. For every kg of body weight, a child needs about 13 grams of Lactose to ensure the demand for brain formation and development.
Supporting the development of strong bones
Calcium and Phosphorus are two types of minerals that influence the activities of bone-forming cells and bone reabsorption. They are also the main components of hydroxyapatite crystals (Ca5(PO4)3OH) - a structural form that enhances the mechanical resilience of bones.
Meanwhile, Lactose is one of the factors supporting the efficient absorption of Calcium and Phosphorus. Especially at critical stages such as pregnancy, infancy, and adolescence in children. Therefore, it is important to consider supplementing Lactose at the right time to ensure optimal height development.
The phenomenon of lactose intolerance
Lactose intolerance, also known as lactose allergy, is a condition occurring in individuals who lack or have limited ability to metabolize lactose into glucose and galactose. This phenomenon is commonly found in infants, but adults and the elderly can also experience it. So, what causes lactose intolerance? Let's delve deeper into this!
Are you familiar with lactose intolerance?
The causes of lactose intolerance
As we know, to metabolize lactose into glucose and galactose, the body requires the secretion of an enzyme called Lactase. This digestive enzyme is produced by specialized cells from the glands located on the intestinal lining. The LCT gene is responsible for directing this production process.
Mutations in the LCT gene are the main cause of congenital lactase deficiency, also known as Alactasia—a common condition in newborns. In adults, the phenomenon of lactase deficiency often occurs due to the decreasing activity of the LCT gene over time. Additionally, intestinal infections or a history of bowel surgery can also temporarily cause lactase deficiency.
Due to insufficient lactase enzyme, lactose in food passes through the stomach without being processed. Bacteria in the intestine ferment them into lactic acid and carbon dioxide, leading to the onset of symptoms of lactose intolerance.
The shortage of lactose is the cause of lactose intolerance.
What are the symptoms of lactose intolerance?
The severity of lactose intolerance symptoms varies depending on individual digestion capabilities. According to research by scientists, approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming lactose-containing foods, patients may experience the following symptoms:
The symptoms of lactose intolerance are not overly severe and usually resolve within 2-3 days. However, for children with weakened immunity and incomplete digestive functions, specialized medical monitoring and care are necessary.
Gas and acid are the causes of symptoms in lactose intolerant individuals.
Furthermore, continuous diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, patients need to pay attention to replenishing water and essential minerals for the body.
How to determine lactose intolerance in the body
The symptoms of lactose intolerance are often vague and can be confused with other digestive disorders. Therefore, to accurately determine lactose intolerance, we need to take the following steps:
Lactose tolerance test
To perform this test, the patient will have their blood drawn to measure the glucose levels. Then, they will be given a liquid containing high levels of lactose to measure the body's response.
Blood lactose tolerance test
About 2 hours later, the patient will have their blood drawn again to recheck the glucose levels. If the blood glucose concentration does not increase, it means that the patient's body is unable to digest and absorb lactose.
Hydrogen breath test
In the patient's body, gas-producing bacteria in the colon when exposed to lactose can produce hydrogen gas. Therefore, this is a type of test that measures the amount of hydrogen gas in the patient's breath.
Hydrogen breath test procedure
Hydrogen breath test
Stool acidity test
This testing method is commonly used for infants. As they cannot tolerate lactose but cannot undergo other tests, the fermentation of undigested lactose produces lactic acid, which can be detected in the stool. Samples are typically collected during diagnostic endoscopy procedures.
Managing lactose intolerance: What are the options?
As of now, there are no medical methods capable of restoring or increasing lactase enzyme levels in individuals with lactose intolerance. Therefore, to alleviate discomfort caused by the condition, we can implement the following measures:
Maintain breastfeeding for infants under 6 months old
For breastfeeding infants, especially those under 6 months old, it is crucial to continue breastfeeding even if the baby shows signs of lactose intolerance. Due to habit and fear, some individuals tend to immediately stop breastfeeding and switch to other formula milks, leading to prolonged diarrhea and severe malnutrition in infants.
Benefits of breastfeeding for infants under 6 months old
Research shows that breast milk contains all the necessary nutrients to help infants recover quickly from diarrhea. Additionally, the antibodies in breast milk contribute to the development of a strong immune system for the baby. Moreover, the nucleotides present in breast milk also play a role in regenerating damaged intestinal mucosa during infection.
Supplement with lactase drops before breastfeeding
Therefore, it's best to supplement directly with lactase drops before breastfeeding. This supplementation should be consulted with a specialized doctor before use. Additionally, it's important to note that the mother's consumption or avoidance of lactose-containing foods does not affect the baby's lactose absorption ability during breastfeeding.
Consider using lactose-free formula milk for formula-fed children. For adults or toddlers in the weaning stage, it's important to limit the consumption of dairy products such as cheese, cream, butter, etc. You can easily control lactose-containing foods by checking the nutritional ingredients on the packaging.
Stop consuming milk and lactose-containing dairy products
Supplement calcium from other food sources
Avoiding milk and dairy products with lactose can lead to calcium deficiency and other essential nutrients. This significantly impacts bone and joint formation and function, especially during periods of growth in children, pregnancy in women, and in adults engaging in physical training.
However, milk is not the sole source of calcium. We can adequately supplement the body's needs through other foods such as broccoli, eggs, meat, fish, liver, and even yogurt (containing hydrolyzed lactose).
Alternative sources of calcium-rich foods instead of milk
Distinguishing between lactose intolerance and milk allergy
While lactose intolerance arises from consuming milk and dairy products, it doesn't imply an allergy to milk. Many people still confuse these two conditions. So how can we differentiate between these two pathological conditions?
Understanding milk allergy and lactose intolerance
As we know, lactose intolerance occurs due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase in the small intestine, leading to the body's inability to break down lactose. On the other hand, milk allergy is an adverse immune reaction to proteins found in milk.
The primary cause of milk allergy is often the alpha protein S1-casein found in cow's milk. However, research findings suggest that milk from sheep, goats, buffalo, and other mammals can also trigger similar reactions.
Differences in the age of the patients
Lactose intolerance can occur at any age, prevalent among African and Asian populations (60-80%), Native Americans (44%), and finally Europeans (5-17%). On the other hand, milk allergy is typically seen in infants under 1 year old, decreases with age, and is less common after 2 years old. Additionally, milk allergy does not exhibit varying prevalence rates among different ethnicities and regions.
Different signs and symptoms
The initial symptoms of milk allergy and lactose intolerance are quite similar, leading to confusion between the two conditions. However, milk allergy reactions carry a higher risk of severe consequences.
Specifically, patients may experience wheezing, vomiting, rash, and other digestive issues. Particularly, individuals with milk allergy are at risk of anaphylaxis—a life-threatening reaction. Therefore, it's essential to differentiate between the signs of milk allergy and lactose intolerance to initiate prompt management and prevent unfortunate outcomes.
Hopefully, this article has shed light on what lactose is and related issues. If you found the information helpful, don't forget to share it with your friends and family. Thank you for reading!
Posted by: Willow Bee
Keywords: What is lactose? Things to know about lactose intolerance
