noun
- an enzyme that breaks down lactose (milk sugar) into simpler sugars
Usage: biochemistry
Examples
- People with lactose intolerance don’t produce enough lactase.
- Lactase supplements can help digest dairy products.
- The small intestine produces lactase to process milk sugar.
- Lactase deficiency is common in many adults worldwide.
- Taking lactase pills before eating ice cream prevented stomach upset.
- Infants naturally produce high levels of lactase for digesting breast milk.