Enzymatic digestion occurs throughout the digestive tract, starting from the mouth and continuing through the stomach and intestines. Each region has specific enzymes optimized for the pH and conditions of that environment:
- Mouth: Salivary amylase begins the breakdown of carbohydrates. - Stomach: Pepsin, a type of protease, starts protein digestion in the acidic environment. - Small intestine: Pancreatic enzymes, such as trypsin and pancreatic lipase, continue the breakdown of proteins and fats. Additionally, enzymes produced by the intestinal lining, like maltase and lactase, complete the digestion of carbohydrates.
