On average,northern Europeans drink much more milk than Japanese or Chinese people,because of a genetic difference.What does that gene control?

Question

​On average,northern Europeans drink much more milk than Japanese or Chinese people,because of a genetic difference.What does that gene control?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gene in question controls the ability to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. Northern Europeans have a genetic mutation that allows them to continue producing the lactase enzyme, which breaks down lactose, into adulthood. Meanwhile, many Japanese and Chinese people lack this mutation and are lactose intolerant. This difference in lactose tolerance is thought to be a result of the historical prevalence of dairy farming and milk consumption in Europe.

​On Average,northern Europeans Drink Much More Milk Than Japanese or Chinese

On Average,northern Europeans Drink Much More Milk Than Japanese or Chinese