Lactose is a Disaccharide Found in Milk

Question

Lactose is a disaccharide found in milk. What makes some people "lactose intolerant" as adults?
A) Some people don't produce any enzymes, including the one needed to digest lactose.
B) Lactose can only be digested by people who produce enough lipase to digest it.
C) Lactose-intolerant people don't produce adequate amounts of lactase.
D) The active site of the lactose-digesting enzyme can vary from person to person.

Accepted Answer

Lactose-intolerant people don't produce adequate amounts of lactase, which is the enzyme required to break down lactose into simple sugars that can be absorbed by the body. Without enough lactase, lactose passes through the digestive system intact, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.