Is There Any Advantage to Lactose?

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Lactose is a conditional prebiotic. Because it's fermented by the gut microbiota, it actually can contribute to a healthier gut. The other thing that really surprised me, Jonathan, is that this is actually the preferred carbohydrate for infants. And I was quite surprised to discover that you will find more lactose in human breast milk than you will find in cow's milk. So there is an element that nature is saying, this is good for our kids.

Lactose is usually only discussed in the context of intolerance. This intolerance can make us feel bloated, gassy and uncomfortable. But from cow’s milk to yoghurt and even breast milk, lactose is everywhere! So, can it really be that bad for us?

In today’s short episode of ZOE Science & Nutrition, we’re joined by Dr Will B. to find out.

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Studies referenced in the episode:

Nature: How humans’ ability to digest milk evolved from famine and disease

PubMed Central (PMC)

Effects of Prebiotic and Probiotic Supplementation on Lactase Deficiency and Lactose Intolerance: A Systematic Review of Controlled Trials

PubMed Central (PMC)

Improving lactose digestion and symptoms of lactose intolerance with a novel galacto-oligosaccharide (RP-G28): a randomized, double-blind clinical trial

PubMed Central (PMC)

Impact of short-chain galactooligosaccharides on the gut microbiome of lactose-intolerant individuals

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/lactose-intolerance