People who are lactose intolerant have a deficiency of the lactase enzyme - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 3
People who are lactose intolerant have a deficiency of the lactase enzyme.
Which one of the following statements about people who are lactose intolerant is correct?
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:People who are lactose intolerant have a deficiency of the lactase enzyme - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. Some of their consumed lactose remains undigested.
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Answer
This statement is correct. People who are lactose intolerant lack sufficient levels of the lactase enzyme, which is necessary for the digestion of lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. As a result, some of their consumed lactose remains undigested and can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Step 2
B. They metabolise lactose in a non-aqueous environment.
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This statement is incorrect. Lactose metabolism occurs in an aqueous environment, specifically in the intestines where it is typically broken down by the lactase enzyme.
Step 3
C. They are unable to digest the proteins found in dairy foods.
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This statement is incorrect. Lactose intolerance specifically refers to the inability to digest lactose, not the proteins found in dairy, such as casein and whey, which can still be digested by individuals regardless of their lactose intolerance.
Step 4
D. Their glycaemic index rises due to galactose passing into the blood.
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Answer
This statement is misleading. While lactose is composed of glucose and galactose, lactose intolerant individuals primarily struggle with lactose itself, not with galactose absorption. Their glycaemic index may not directly involve galactose in this context.