LEARNING OBJECTIVES
In this article, author has explained about lactose sugar, structure of lactose, properties and applications of lactose.
Lactose is a disaccharide found in the mammary glands of all mammals. It is commonly known as “milk sugar”. It is very essential carbohydrate for infants. It is a common disaccharide of milk. When lactose is absorbed in the intestine, the enzyme “lactase” breaks it into glucose and galactose.
When lactase is absent it causes a disease called lactose intolerance.
Lactose is made up of two monosaccharides; glucose and galactose, both are building blocks of carbohydrates.
Structure of lactose
Table of Contents
Lactose is made when β-D-glucose and β-D-galactose are linked through a glycosidic bond. The bond is formed between carbon 1 and carbon 4.
As shown from the structure, the bond is a 1,4 glycosidic bond in beta orientation.
Properties of structure
- The chemical formula of lactose is C12H22O11.
- Lactose has a crystalline structure.
- Lactose has free anomeric carbon, therefore, lactose shows reducing properties.
- When lactose is absorbed in the small intestine, the enzyme lactase breaks it into glucose and galactose.
- Lactose is less sweet as compared to sucrose.
- Lactose has 4kcal/g energy.
- The mass of lactose is 342.3g/mol.
- It is water as well as alcohol soluble.
- Its melting point is 202.80C.
Applications of lactose
- Lactose is a “lactating agent”. It is a major nutrient of milk.
- Present in the milk of all mammals.
- Use in pharmaceuticals industries.
- Use in aromas and flavoring agents.
- Also, use in drug products.
- Use in fermentation for the production of cheese, yogurt, and sour milk.
- Use in baked items.
- Use in many edibles like condensed milk, ice cream, meat products, chocolates, canned fruits, vegetables, etc.
Benefits of lactose
- Lactose assists in the absorption of many other minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
- Human breast milk contains lactose a major nutrient that is essential for the growth of babies.
- It causes less tooth decay as compared to other sugars.
- Lactose inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
- Provides glucose which is a source of energy.
Disadvantages of lactose
- Milk containing a high concentration of lactose is rich in fat and cholesterol which increases the risk of a heart attack.
- People who are lactose intolerant are unable to digest lactose.
- Milk rich in lactose can lead to breast and ovarian cancer.
Lactose milk is rich in saturated fats which can cause many diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, type 2 diabetes, and heart diseases.