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There are several enzymes in the human body, each of which has a different function. One enzyme that we often hear about is the lactase enzyme. What is the lactase enzyme, and how does it play a role in digestive system?
What is Lactase Enzyme?
Enzymes are chemical compounds that are primarily composed of protein. The main task of enzymes is to speed up the rate of specific chemical reactions in cells, including the digestive system.
The body produces digestive enzymes to help break down nutrients in food so that the digestive system more easily absorbs them.
Lactase (lactase enzyme) is a type of enzyme in the digestive system produced by the body. The digestive enzyme lactase is produced by the epithelial cells that line the walls of the small intestine.
Lactase Enzyme Functions
The special function of the lactase enzyme is to help the body digest lactose. Lactase digests milk sugar (lactose) into glucose and galactose.
Lactase is a type of enzyme, while lactose is a type of sugar digested by the lactase enzyme. Lactose is one of the sugar forms found in various dairy products, such as milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and others.
Disorders Related to the Lactase Enzyme
Like other digestive enzymes, lactase levels in the body should be balanced so that its function works well. Because disrupted enzyme function will cause digestive disorders.
The following are various conditions related to disruption of the function of the lactase enzyme:
1. Congenital Alactasia
After birth, babies can produce lactase on their own. However, in some rare cases, babies cannot develop this ability.
This condition is called congenital alactasia or also known as congenital lactase deficiency.
2. Lactose Intolerance
​​For someone lactose intolerant, the production of the lactase enzyme tends to decrease significantly.
As a result, lactose cannot be digested completely, so it will be fermented by bacteria in the digestive tract, which risks causing digestive disorders such as nausea, flatulence, and diarrhea.
Recoginize The Deficiency of Lactase Enzyme to Prevent Digestive Problem
The lactase enzyme plays a significant role in the body’s digestive system. Recognize the condition of a deficiency or absence of the lactase enzyme to prevent digestive problems that might occur.
If you have lactose intolerance, you should drink an alternative, such as cashew milk!
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