What are the effects of lactose? Is it harmful to health?

Lactose is sometimes referred to as "milk sugar" because it is only found naturally in the milk of mammals—including cows, goats and humans. Lactose digestion occurs in the small intestine with the help of the enzyme known as lactase. Lactase breaks down lactose into the monosaccharides galactose and glucose, which makes them available for absorption. Undigested lactose also draws water into the intestinal lumen through its osmotic effect, which increases motility and can cause diarrhea. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence. Lactose has several applications in the food industry. Because of its physiological properties, it is widely used in sweets, confectionery, bread, and sausages; lactose provides good texture and binds water and color.

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