Pancreatic enzymes are a group of enzymes produced by the pancreas.
Pancreatic enzymes play a critical role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine.
The main pancreatic enzymes include:
1. Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates such as starch and glycogen into simpler sugars.
2. Lipase: Digests fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
3. Proteases: trypsin, chymotrypsin, and carboxypeptidase. Break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids.
These enzymes are released into the small intestine where they help to break down food so that nutrients can be absorbed by the body.