What Is Lactose In Your Blood: Understanding Its Impact On Health

Lactose in the blood refers to a specific type of sugar present in various dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream. When you consume these dairy items, an enzyme called lactase, which resides in your stomach, plays a crucial role. Lactase’s primary function is to break down lactose into two simpler sugars known as glucose and galactose. Normally, after you consume dairy, your blood glucose level should begin to rise within approximately two hours. To assess this increase in blood glucose, medical professionals use a blood test specifically designed to measure the post-dairy consumption response. This test helps diagnose conditions related to lactose intolerance or other issues affecting the body’s ability to process lactose-containing foods.

“What does high lactose in the blood mean?” is a common question. Typically, the intestine contains lactose-transporting proteins, so elevated lactose levels in the bloodstream are unusual. However, various factors can lead to increased blood lactose levels. For instance, nursing mothers may experience this due to lactation processes. Additionally, individuals who have undergone gastrointestinal surgery, those with conditions like celiac disease or rotavirus-mediated gastroenteritis, and even newborns may exhibit elevated blood lactose levels. This phenomenon was last discussed in a study published on August 31, 2017. Understanding these contexts helps shed light on the implications of high lactose in the blood.