Lactose,The Milk Sugar and Its Role in Human Nutrition

Lactose is a type of sugar found only in milk. It is composed of two monosaccharides: glucose and galactose. It is part of a group of organic compounds called carbohydrates, which are the main source of energy in our diet. Foods like bread and potatoes are rich in carbohydrates and serve as important sources of nourishment. Inside the body, carbohydrates are broken down into high-energy compounds that fuel biochemical reactions and provide the energy needed for the body to function. In addition to supplying energy, carbohydrates are also used to produce essential chemical substances in the body. They are stored in the muscles as muscle glycogen and in the liver as liver glycogen. Lactose, also known as milk sugar, is a disaccharide, meaning it is made of two simpler sugars: glucose and galactose. The amount of lactose in milk typically ranges from 3.6% to 5.5%. It is soluble in water, forming a molecular solution in milk. During the cheesemaking process, most of the lactose stays in the whey (the liquid part separated from the curd). When whey is evaporated to make whey cheese, the lactose becomes even more concentrated. Unlike many other sugars, lactose is not very sweet—in fact, it is about 30 times less sweet than cane sugar.In addition ; Lactose is especially beneficial for people with diabetes. Supporting  the body’s elimination mechanisms, it also helps regulate body weight. As a result,For individuals with diabetes, moderate consumption of dairy products containing lactose can help with blood sugar control. This is because lactose is naturally broken-down during digestion and does not cause a sudden spike in blood glucose levels. However, for those who are lactose intolerant, consuming dairy products may lead to digestive issues.

 Comparison of Lactose Levels in Various Milk and Whey Powders in Zarrin Shad Company Products: