Lactose, Sugar Milk, Aletobiose, β-Lactose, Lactin, Osmolactan, Galactinum, 63-42-3

Lactose, Sugar Milk, Aletobiose, β-Lactose, Lactin, Osmolactan, Galactinum, 63-42-3

What is Lactose?

• Chemical name: Lactose

• CAS number: 14641-93-1

• Formula: C12H22O11

• Molecular weight: 342.3

• Packaging: 25 kg / bag

• Definition: A disaccharide sugar formed by glucose and galactose. Commonly known as “milk sugar,” it provides energy but can cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.

Lactose Intolerance

• Cause: Insufficient activity of the enzyme lactase in the small intestine.

• Symptoms: Bloating, gas, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps.

• Onset: Typically 30–60 minutes after consuming dairy.

• Mechanism: Undigested lactose is fermented by bacteria in the colon, producing short-chain fatty acids and gas.

Types of Lactose Intolerance

1. Primary: Most common; due to age-related decline in lactase production.

   • Prevalence: <10% in Northern Europeans, ~50% in Latin/Middle Eastern populations, 80–99% in African and Asian populations.

2. Secondary: Caused by intestinal diseases or damage (Crohn’s, celiac, ulcerative colitis, chemotherapy).

3. Congenital: Rare, genetic disorder present at birth; infants cannot digest breast milk.

4. Developmental: Seen in premature infants; usually improves as the digestive system matures.

Who is More Affected?

• Adults (more common than in children).

• Premature infants.

• Cancer patients after chemotherapy/radiation.

• People with intestinal disorders.

Possible Harms of Lactose

• Digestive discomfort (nausea, bloating, gas, cramps).

• Difficult digestion in the colon.

• May contribute to irregular eating habits if symptoms are frequent.

In short: Lactose is a natural sugar in milk, but many adults worldwide cannot digest it properly due to reduced lactase enzyme activity. This leads to lactose intolerance, which varies in severity and type.

 Lactose – Sectoral Suitability Table

Alternative Sugars – Comparison Table