Lactose

Lactose is a simple sugar found in milk and dairy products. It is a major source of energy for infants and children, as well as many adults who are lactose intolerant.

Lactose begins to be produced in the human body after birth. It is formed from glucose and fructose, which enter the body from food. Lactose is an important source of energy for newborns as it is easily digestible and quickly converted into glucose.

However, some people may be lactose intolerant. This means that their body cannot process lactose into glucose, and it remains in the intestines as undigested residue. This can lead to various symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea and other digestive problems.

If you are lactose intolerant, you can try eliminating dairy products from your diet. However, you shouldn't completely give up dairy products, as they contain many other beneficial substances such as calcium, vitamin D and protein. Instead, you can replace dairy products with lactose-free options, which contain the same nutrients but without the lactose.

Additionally, you can use lactose-free milk in cooking. Many recipes call for milk, but you can substitute lactose-free milk. For example, you can make lactose-free yogurt or cheese using lactose-free milk instead of regular milk.

In general, lactose is an important nutrient found in dairy products, but it can cause digestive problems in some people. If you suffer from lactose intolerance, you can eliminate dairy products from your diet or replace them with lactose-free options.