laktósa

Laktósa is a disaccharide, a type of sugar, composed of galactose and glucose. It is primarily found in milk and dairy products, where it is the main carbohydrate. The name "laktósa" itself is derived from the Latin word for milk, "lac."

In the digestive system of mammals, laktósa is broken down into its constituent monosaccharides, galactose and glucose, by an enzyme called lactase. These simpler sugars are then absorbed into the bloodstream and used for energy. The production of lactase is typically high in infants and young children, enabling them to digest their mother's milk.

However, many individuals, particularly adults, experience a decrease in lactase production. This condition is known as lactose intolerance. When a person with lactose intolerance consumes laktósa, it is not fully digested in the small intestine. Undigested laktósa then passes into the large intestine, where it is fermented by bacteria. This fermentation process produces gases such as hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide, leading to symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, gas, and diarrhea.

The prevalence of lactose intolerance varies significantly across different populations and ethnic groups. In some populations, it is very common, while in others, it is relatively rare. Management of lactose intolerance typically involves reducing or avoiding the consumption of lactose-containing foods or using lactase enzyme supplements to aid digestion.