Lactose intolerance is:

Correct option is C

​The correct answer is (c) a condition in which the small intestines are unable to break down the sugars found in dairy products.

Solution:

• Lactose intolerance is a digestive disorder where the body is unable to properly digest lactose, the sugar found in dairy products.
• This occurs due to a deficiency in lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose in the small intestine.
• When lactose is not broken down, it can lead to symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Explanation of Other Options:

• characterized by adverse reactions to gluten: Incorrect. This refers to gluten intolerance or celiac disease, which is a condition related to the protein gluten found in wheat, barley, and rye, not lactose.
• a condition where small intestines are unable to break down gluten: Incorrect. This refers to celiac disease, a condition where the body reacts adversely to gluten, causing damage to the small intestine. It is not related to lactose intolerance.
• a condition where fructose isn't efficiently absorbed into the blood: Incorrect. This describes fructose malabsorption, a condition where the body has difficulty absorbing fructose, a sugar found in fruits, honey, and some sweeteners, but is unrelated to lactose intolerance.

Information Booster:

• Lactose: A sugar present in milk and dairy products.
• Lactase enzyme: Responsible for breaking down lactose into simpler sugars (glucose and galactose) so they can be absorbed in the bloodstream.
• Symptoms of Lactose intolerance: Includes bloating, cramps, diarrhea, and nausea after consuming dairy products.