What defines lactose intolerance?

• A. The inability to digest lactose
• B. The inability to absorb glucose
• C. The inability to process proteins
• D. The inability to synthesize bile

Answer: (A)

Lactose intolerance is specifically defined as the inability to digest lactose, which is the sugar found in milk and dairy products. This condition arises due to a deficiency in lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose, which the body can then absorb. When individuals with lactose intolerance consume lactose-containing foods, they may experience symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain as lactose ferments in the gut instead of being properly digested.

The other options refer to different digestive processes that do not pertain to lactose. The inability to absorb glucose relates to issues with glucose transport or metabolism, the inability to process proteins refers to protein digestion and absorption disorders, and the inability to synthesize bile addresses problems with fat digestion. Each of these conditions involves different enzymes or mechanisms and does not directly relate to the digestion of lactose.