Mælkesukker

Mælkesukker, also known as lactose, is a disaccharide sugar found in milk. It is composed of two simpler sugar molecules, glucose and galactose, linked together. Lactose is the primary carbohydrate in mammalian milk, serving as an important energy source for newborns. When digested, lactose is broken down into its constituent monosaccharides by the enzyme lactase, which is present in the small intestine. For individuals who lack sufficient lactase production, this breakdown is incomplete, leading to lactose intolerance. Symptoms of lactose intolerance can include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products. The concentration of lactose in milk varies, but it typically constitutes about 4-5% of cow's milk by weight. Beyond its nutritional role in milk, lactose is also used as an ingredient in the food industry, often as a bulking agent or flavor enhancer. It can be found in various processed foods, including baked goods, confectionery, and infant formulas. The production of lactose typically involves the evaporation and crystallization of whey, a byproduct of cheesemaking.