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When reading the nutritional information on packaged drinks, you might come across the contents of sucrose and lactose. Do you know what sucrose and lactose are?
Sucrose and lactose are two types of sugar commonly found in food and beverages. Sugar is a simple form of carbohydrate. Although both are sugars, they have various differences. This article will discuss the differences between sucrose and lactose from different angles. Read on to the end!
What is Sucrose?
Sucrose, also known as table sugar, is commonly used in everyday cooking. Sucrose can be naturally found in fruits, vegetables, and grains. It is also often used as an added sweetener in packaged foods such as candies, ice cream, cereals, and packaged drinks.
What is Lactose?
Lactose is a sugar naturally found in animal milk and its products, such as cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. Additionally, lactose is present in breast milk.
Breast milk contains about 7.2 percent lactose, whereas cow’s milk contains about 4.7 percent lactose.
Differences Between Sucrose and Lactose
After understanding what sucrose and lactose are, let’s explore their differences from various aspects!
1. Source
Sucrose can be naturally found in various plants, such as sugar cane, beets, fruits, vegetables, and grains. It is a product of plant photosynthesis. Sucrose from these plants is widely used in industries to be processed and crystallized into an added sweetener in foods and drinks.
Lactose is a natural sugar found in animal milk and its products. Lactose is also present in breast milk.
2. Chemical Composition
Both sucrose and lactose are disaccharides, meaning they consist of two molecules. However, their constituent molecules differ.
Sucrose consists of one glucose molecule and one fructose molecule. In contrast, lactose consists of one glucose molecule and one galactose molecule.
Sucrose has a sweeter taste than lactose, which is why it is widely used as an added sweetener in food and beverages.
3. Digestion Process
In the digestive system, sucrose and lactose must be broken down into single molecules to be absorbed into the body cells.
The metabolism of sucrose requires the enzyme sucrase. In the small intestine, sucrose is broken down into glucose and fructose by sucrase.
Meanwhile, the digestion of lactose requires the enzyme lactase. In the intestine, lactose is broken down into glucose and galactose by lactase.
4. Metabolic Disorders
Metabolic disorders of sucrose and lactose lead to sucrose intolerance and lactose intolerance.
Sucrose intolerance is the difficulty of digesting sucrose due to a lack of the enzyme sucrase, making it impossible for the body to break down and digest sucrose. This enzyme deficiency is usually genetic.
Lactose intolerance is when the body cannot digest lactose completely due to a lack of the enzyme lactase. The incidence of lactose intolerance is more common than sucrose intolerance.
Although the causes differ, sucrose intolerance and lactose intolerance can cause similar symptoms, such as:
- bloating
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- constipation
- difficulty in bowel movements
To determine whether someone has sucrose intolerance or lactose intolerance, a medical examination is required.
5. Health Impacts
Lactose, a natural sugar found in animal milk, has various health benefits. According to various studies, lactose plays a role in mineral and calcium absorption. Additionally, lactose helps the development of good bacteria in the gut, aiding digestion.
However, many people experience lactose intolerance. For those with lactose intolerance, it is advisable to avoid foods and drinks containing lactose.
Sucrose provides energy for the body. However, consuming too much sucrose-containing food can have adverse effects on the body, such as obesity, diabetes, and dental problems.
These are some differences between sucrose and lactose. After understanding their differences, you can consider your needs. Don’t forget to limit your daily sugar intake!
Arummi’s Recommendation: Try Arummi Cashew Milk!
Consuming too many high-sugar products can negatively impact your body. If you’re looking for low-sugar milk, Arummi Cashew Milk is the perfect choice.
Besides being low in sugar, Arummi Cashew Milk is also lactose-free, making it easier to digest and suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Get Arummi Cashew Milk at your nearest supermarket!
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