Answer to Question #94962 in Biochemistry for Kylie

Question

Describe lactose intolerance.

Answer 1

Lactose intolerance is a digestive condition characterized by failure to digest lactose.The disorder prohibits enzyme lactase from breaking lactose into glucose and galactose which can be absorbed into blood stream. It is caused by genes that cause a decline of lactase with age and sickness such as celiac disease that causes the gut wall to swell hampering production of lactase. Symptoms include diarrhea and gas that is attributed to fermentation of undigested lactose in the gut.The illness is managed by eating other non-dairy sources of calcium such as boned fish. Finally, the condition is treated by using enzyme supplements that facilitate digestion of lactose such as  Beta-Galactosidase.