Many people worldwide lack the enzyme lactase necessary to digest lactose and are intolerant of milk in their diet. People intolerant of milk can eat yogurt with no digestive disturbances. Why?

Is this because the lactose in yogurt is already broken down through the fermentation of lactose, thus the enzyme lactase isn't needed?

Question

Many people worldwide lack the enzyme lactase necessary to digest lactose and are intolerant of milk in their diet. People intolerant of milk can eat yogurt with no digestive disturbances. Why?

Is this because the lactose in yogurt is already broken down through the fermentation of lactose, thus the enzyme lactase isn't needed?

anonymous · Answer

So is that right?

kainui · Answer

Yes, I believe that's exactly right. Since lactose is just galactose and glucose, lactose intolerant people can handle them just fine.

anonymous · Answer

Yay! Thanks for your answer. = ]