Lactose is a sugar that is found in milk and milk products. It is broken down in the body by the enzyme lactase, which is produced by cells in the small intestine. When lactose is consumed, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and used for energy.
In some people, the body does not produce enough lactase to fully break down lactose. This can lead to digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea when they consume dairy products. This condition is known as lactose intolerance.
However, eliminating lactose from the diet is not necessary for most people. While some people may have lactose intolerance or choose to avoid dairy products for other reasons, such as allergies or personal preference, lactose is an important source of nutrients for many people. Dairy products are a good source of calcium, protein, and other important nutrients.
If you have lactose intolerance or choose to avoid dairy products, it is important to ensure that you are getting enough of these nutrients from other sources. There are many non-dairy sources of calcium and protein, such as leafy green vegetables, nuts, and fortified plant-based milks.
In summary, lactose should not be eliminated from the diet for most people. However, if you have lactose intolerance or choose to avoid dairy products, it is important to ensure that you are getting enough nutrients from other sources.