Lactose intolerance

Eduzendium article

Lactose intolerance is due to a decreased production of the enzyme lactase in the cells lining the small intestine, resulting in an inability to break down or metabolize the sugar in milk, lactose. In order to be digested, the disaccharide lactose must be broken down to the simpler sugars, glucose and galactose. The excess lactose causes enteral bacteria to adapt and