While there are many digestive enzymes, seven commonly mentioned are: amylase, maltase, lactase, lipase, protease (a group of enzymes, not a single one), sucrase, and lingual lipase (often overlooked). Note that protease is a family of enzymes, not a single enzyme.
Key Digestive Enzymes: A Closer Look
Here's a breakdown of the roles of these important enzymes:
- Amylase: Breaks down complex carbohydrates (starches) into simpler sugars. Amylase is produced in the mouth (salivary amylase) and the pancreas (pancreatic amylase). [Source: Hopkins Medicine, Verywell Health]
- Maltase: Breaks down maltose (a disaccharide sugar) into glucose. [Source: Verywell Health]
- Lactase: Breaks down lactose (the sugar in milk) into glucose and galactose. Lactase deficiency leads to lactose intolerance. [Source: Verywell Health]
- Lipase: Breaks down fats (lipids) into fatty acids and glycerol. Lipase is primarily produced in the pancreas. [Source: Hopkins Medicine, Verywell Health]
- Proteases (Pepsin, Trypsin, Chymotrypsin etc.): A group of enzymes that break down proteins into amino acids. Different proteases work on different types of peptide bonds. Examples include pepsin (in the stomach) and trypsin and chymotrypsin (in the pancreas). [Source: Wikipedia, Verywell Health]
- Sucrase: Breaks down sucrose (table sugar) into glucose and fructose. [Source: Verywell Health]
- Lingual Lipase: Begins the digestion of fats in the mouth. This enzyme is less discussed than others but plays an important initial role. [Source: Wikipedia]
These enzymes work together to efficiently break down the food we eat, allowing our bodies to absorb the necessary nutrients. Enzyme deficiencies can lead to digestive issues.
