Rennin and lactase, the enzymes required to digest milk, disappear in the human body by the age of

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

RRB Pharmacist Previous Year Paper 2015

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Two

Rationale:

Rennin and lactase are enzymes crucial for the digestion of milk. Rennin helps in the coagulation of milk, making it easier for the stomach to digest, while lactase breaks down lactose, the sugar found in milk, into glucose and galactose.
In most humans, the production of these enzymes decreases significantly after infancy. By the age of two, the levels of rennin and lactase typically drop, making it harder for the body to digest milk as efficiently as it did during infancy.
This decline in enzyme production is a natural process and is more pronounced in certain populations, leading to lactose intolerance in many adults.

Explanation of Other Options:

Three

Rationale: While enzyme levels continue to decline, the significant drop-off usually occurs by the age of two, not three. By three, most children have already experienced the major decrease in rennin and lactase production.

Five

Rationale: By the age of five, most children have already passed the critical period of enzyme reduction. They might show signs of lactose intolerance, but the decline begins much earlier, typically by age two.

Eight

Rationale: By age eight, the body has long since adjusted to the lower levels of rennin and lactase. The significant decline in these enzymes occurs much earlier, around the age of two.

Conclusion:

The correct answer is that rennin and lactase, the enzymes required to digest milk, disappear in the human body by the age of two. While enzyme levels continue to decline as children grow older, the most significant reduction happens by this age, which can lead to lactose intolerance in many individuals as they age.