Humans' ability to digest milk stems from the advent of cattle domestication in Africa

(Cell Press) Most people lose the ability to digest the milk sugar lactose after weaning, but some populations retain high levels of an enzyme called lactase, allowing them to break down lactose in adulthood. In a new study researchers identified genetic factors associated with lactase persistence and found that this trait became more prevalent with the introduction of cattle domestication in Africa. The findings provide evidence that lactase persistence evolved in human populations as a dietary adaptation.

Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science - March 13, 2014 Category: Global & Universal Source Type: news