Why Do Some People Find Dairy Comforting While Others Can't Tolerate It? Here's What Science Says

Dairy is a major part of Indian cuisine, from sweets to main dishes. However, you might even have heard the term 'lactose intolerant' several times, which is a common digestive condition where your body cannot break down lactose. But why is it something that is so comforting for millions, and how can it be a cause of discomfort for others? Learn why dairy is so comforting for some, while others can't tolerate it.

Why Do Some People Find Dairy Comforting?

Dairy is the first thing humans are introduced to in the form of food because of breast milk. According to US Dairy, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components in milk and other dairy foods may contribute to improved sleep quality.

Meanwhile, as per Florida Milk, the amino acid tryptophan in milk is essential for the production of neurotransmitters that regulate mood, promote well-being, and regulate sleep, such as serotonin and melatonin. Magnesium in dairy has the ability to relax muscles and calm the nervous system. Protein in them also has a calming effect on the brain and helps produce melatonin, which may help lower anxiety and stress levels.

Along with the soothing qualities of dairy, texture preferences can also be partly inherited. According to a study by PubMed Central, genetic factors account for roughly 44% of the variation in individual dairy preferences. DNA directly reflects if you can comfortably digest milk and its products or not.

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Why are some populations of humans lactose intolerant?

For the unversed, Lactose intolerance is a common digestive problem where the body cannot break down or digest lactose, the natural sugar found in milk and dairy products.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the small intestine makes an enzyme called lactase, which breaks down lactose into simpler sugars. If your small intestine does not make enough lactase, undigested lactose moves into your colon. This causes discomfort as bacteria in your colon break down this leftover lactose.

One might feel bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea after consuming dairy if the person is  lactose intolerant.

Apart from natural ageing or any illness, genetic and ancestry are the biggest reasons of lactose intolerance.

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According to Medline Plus, the ability to digest lactose into adulthood depends on which variants in the regulatory element within the MCM6 gene individuals have inherited. For the unversed, the MCM6 gene is a human gene that guides cell division by helping unwind DNA and regulates whether adults can digest milk.

Lactose intolerance is most common in East Asia, where 70% of adults are affected. This is also common in Africa and the Middle East.

This is also because of evolution, as in several warmer regions raising dairy cattle was not so common.  

Conclusion: 

So, next time you find yourself wondering why you love dairy while your friend is lactose intolerant, you have your answer. Despite all of this, dairy is one of the most important component in several cuisines and dishes across the world.