Lactose is made up of:

The correct answer is Glucose and Galactose.

Key Points

• Lactose is a disaccharide sugar composed of one molecule of glucose and one molecule of galactose linked by a β-1,4-glycosidic bond.
• Lactose is commonly found in milk and dairy products and is often referred to as "milk sugar."
• It serves as a primary source of energy for young mammals and is broken down in the digestive system by the enzyme lactase.
• Individuals with lactose intolerance lack sufficient lactase enzyme, leading to difficulty digesting lactose.

Additional Information

• Disaccharides:
  • These are carbohydrates composed of two monosaccharides linked by a glycosidic bond.
  • Examples include sucrose (glucose + fructose), maltose (glucose + glucose), and lactose (glucose + galactose).
• Lactase Enzyme:
  • Lactase is produced in the small intestine and is responsible for breaking lactose into glucose and galactose.
  • A deficiency in lactase leads to lactose intolerance.
• Lactose Intolerance:
  • A condition where individuals experience symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming lactose-containing foods.
  • It is more common in adults and varies in prevalence among different populations globally.
• Nutritional Importance:
  • Lactose enhances calcium absorption in the body, promoting bone health.
  • It is a significant energy source in infant nutrition, especially during breastfeeding.