Registered Dietitian Exam Prep

Category - Nutrition Science

What does salivary amylase break down?

  1. carbohydrates/starches
  2. lipids
  3. nucleic acids
  4. proteins
  5. All of the above
Explanation

Answer: A - Salivary amylase breaks down carbohydrates. Saliva contains special enzymes that help digest the starches in your food. An enzyme called amylase breaks down starches (complex carbohydrates) into sugars, which your body can more easily absorb. Saliva also contains an enzyme called lingual lipase, which breaks down fats.  When food is chewed thoroughly, it combines with saliva, which contains digestive enzymes. This more masticated combination of foodand helps improve the digestive process. Chewing your food properly can help smooth digestion and improve nutrient absorption for a client.

Source: Alton Memorial Hospital

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