Final answer:
Lactase is important for digesting lactose found in milk and dairy products, helping to prevent symptoms of lactose intolerance such as bloating and cramps. It also facilitates the absorption of glucose and galactose into the body. Lactose tolerance is also an evolutionary adaptation that assisted in the development of dairy farming cultures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lactase is an enzyme crucial for the digestion of lactose, a carbohydrate found in milk and dairy products. Without sufficient levels of lactase, individuals cannot properly break down lactose, leading to lactose intolerance. Symptoms of this condition include bloating, cramps, nausea, and vomiting, due to the undigested lactose being fermented by bacteria in the colon. Not only does lactase allow for the digestion of a major energy source, lactose, but it also facilitates the absorption of vital nutrients, such as glucose and galactose, which are essential for a wide range of bodily functions.
The importance of lactase extends beyond digestion. It's been suggested that in regions where dairy farming is prevalent, such as Europe, the ability to produce lactase gave an evolutionary advantage, influencing the development of lactose tolerance. This adaptation allowed populations to utilize milk as a resource for nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
For those with lactose intolerance, lactose-free dairy products and dietary supplements containing lactase can help manage their digestive process and mitigate intolerance symptoms.