What is Lactose Intolerance? This simple question is important for us to know as we as an adult are most likely lactose intolerant but we just don’t know it. Adults are actually lacking lactase, an enzyme that can digest sugars in animal based milk which is called lactose. When lactose is not broken down, it can cause discomfort to our body by showing symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
Although this is a common phenomenon among adults, this condition is not a problem among children. Lactase can be produced at a high amount during infancy and early childhood. This is why children can drink milk everyday, without showing any symptoms as the milk sugar can be digested easily. However, some children may develop lactose intolerance as they become older because their bodies produce less lactase.
Brief History of Human and Lactose
Humans in history are unable to digest lactose after infancy and until nowadays, many stay the same. For some groups, specifically Northern European ancestry, their DNA has developed the ability to digest lactose unlike others. Genetic mutation that occurs back to 10000 years ago began when humans started to domesticate animals such as cows, goats, and sheep. These animal based milk became one of the important food sources among these Northern Europeans. This mutation gave them added benefits and advantages during the time needed for example during starvation time.
Alternative to Animal Based Milk
Although adults are not advised to drink animal based milk too much due to lactose intolerance, there are other plant based alternatives that we can choose from. The most famous alternatives are almond nut milk.
Almond Nut is considered as one of the closest alternatives to animal based milk due to the similar texture. Almond milk has a creamy texture to cow’s milk which makes it easier to use it as an alternative in beverages. It also has a mild flavour which does not overpower the taste of cooking. Other than that, it has lower calories compared to other types of nut milk making it a good alternative for those looking to watch their weight. In Love Earth we have a healthier milk option made from plant so it is safe for people with lactose intolerance! Do click on the link below to know more about Almond Milk from Love Earth!
Love Earth Almond Soymilk Powder 500g
Written by: Alia Adrina Asri
Bsc (Hons) Nutrition
Love Earth Nutritionist
