Lactose: 3 Research-Backed Benefits & 2 Side-Effects
Lactose is a sugar sometimes referred to as milk sugar because it is a natural component in milk.
The benefits of consuming lactose are that lactose stimulates the intestinal absorption of calcium, it is an important part of the energy supply for infants, it is good for the stomach and intestine, and may also be beneficial against some lower intestinal diseases.
Side effects that might come from consuming lactose have been postulated that it might induce oxidative stress and inflammation.
In this article, we list claims of potential benefits and/or side-effects of lactose that we have found research on. Every claim is listed with all of its sources. We get these claims from our Nutrition Tool.
We also have an article about lactose named What Is Lactose & What Foods Can I Find It In? if you're interested in learning more.
Table of Contents
Research-Backed Beneficial Claims Of Lactose
These are some of the potential research-backed health benefits of lactose.
1. Calcium Absorption
Lactose - Calcium Absorption
About this claim
Calcium absorption is affected by several promoting and inhibitory factors. Your body absorbs about 20% of the calcium you consume from foods. Research shows that some nutrients can help your body with absorbing calcium.
Research sources for this claim
- Lactose - an overview ◳
- Lactose digestion in humans: intestinal lactase appears to be constitutive whereas the colonic microbiome is adaptable ◳
You are welcome to explore 4 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. Infant Development
Lactose - Infant Development
About this claim
Infants are children between 0-1 years of age. Some nutrients are essential for infants. They are necessary to lay the foundations for lifelong health. The most crucial nutrients for infants will they obtain from breast milk. When an infant doesn't breastfeed, it's crucial to make sure the child gets all the nutrients it needs.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 20 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
3. Stomach And Intestine
Lactose - Stomach And Intestine
About this claim
Your stomach and intestines are where the nutrients from the food you consume get in your body. Research shows that some nutrients may be beneficial for your stomach and intestines. For instance, help keep your digestive system healthy.
Research sources for this claim
- Compound Summary alpha-Lactose ◳
- Lactose digestion in humans: intestinal lactase appears to be constitutive whereas the colonic microbiome is adaptable ◳
You are welcome to explore 20 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
Research-Backed Side-Effects Of Lactose
These are some of the potential research-backed side-effects of lactose.
1. Inflammation
Lactose - Inflammation
About this claim
Consuming foods that are bad for you can cause chronic inflammations. Research shows that all nutrients might not be useful for you. Some might give you or make your inflammation worse.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 47 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. Oxidative Stress
Lactose - Oxidative Stress
About this claim
Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body. It can lead to cell and tissue damage. Several studies have shown that some nutrients might worsen the balance between the free radicals and antioxidants in the body, which can lead to the development of serious diseases.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 18 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.