Question

Lactose intolerance occurs due to the enzyme deficiency of the enzyme lactase in the jejunum of the intestine. The lactase enzyme is found in specialized cells that break lactose down into glucose and galactose. The glucose is absorbed by the intestine and may be utilized by the cells through glycolysis, whilst the remainder of the glucose and galactose enter the glycolytic pathway. If there were to be a galactose intolerance, then it could be due to the deficiency/defects in the GALT enzyme, leading to galactosemia, which would be characterized by other symptoms that will distinctly differentiate it from lactose intolerance?

Answer 1

Lactose intolerance is characterized by the deficiency of lactase which catalyzes the hydrolysis of lactose to glucose and galactose.
Lactose intolerance is not lethal. It is characterized by intestinal cramps, diarrhea, and bloating.

People with Galactosemia do not have problems in digesting or absorbing lactose. However, the problem starts once the galactose enters the bloodstream. Galactosemia is life-threatening. The untreated condition leads to reproductive problems, brain damage, and speech problems.