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Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase. The amylase breaks down the polysaccharide starch into a disaccharide called glucose.

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15y ago

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What do complex carbohydrates and proteins have in common?

slow to digest


Where does carbohydrates begin?

Carbohydrate digestion begins in the mouth, where saliva and chewing both start to digest those kinds of foods.Mouth, saliva contains the enzyme amylase which breaks down sugars (carbohydrates)


What is the first liquid that begins to digest starches?

The salivary amylase enzyme begins the digestion of carbohydrates.


What molecules in your body that allow us to digest complex carbohydrates?

catabolic molecules


Can you digest food out saliva?

Digest is a strong word so I am going to say no. Saliva can helps breakdown food compound but it is in fact not strong enough to fully breakdown or "digest" food. In fact, teeth and chewing helps saliva in breaking food down. Also, saliva can only breakdown carbohydrates compound. Proteins, fats and fibres need stronger and different enzyme. PS: saliva is essentially an enzyme


Is saliva an inhibitor?

No, saliva's function is to digest carbohydrates through it's containing the enzyme amylase.


Are small amounts of carbohydrates needed for good health?

It is better with large amounts of carbohydrates. That is what our digestive system has evolved to digest. Complex carbohydrates and not simple sugars.


What a the 2 types of cabohydrates?

The two main types of carbohydrates are simple carbohydrates (sugars) and complex carbohydrates (starches and fiber). Simple carbohydrates are quickly digested and provide a rapid source of energy, while complex carbohydrates take longer to digest and provide sustained energy.


What is the watery liquid that begins the chemical breakdown of food?

The watery liquid that begins the chemical breakdown of food is saliva. Saliva contains enzymes that help break down carbohydrates in the food we eat, making it easier for the body to digest.


Where does carbohydrate digestion begin?

Carbohydrate digestion begins in the mouth, where saliva and chewing both start to digest those kinds of foods.Mouth, saliva contains the enzyme amylase which breaks down sugars (carbohydrates)


What is the liquid that first begins to digest enzymes?

The liquid that first begins to digest enzymes is saliva. Saliva contains enzymes, such as amylase, which initiate the breakdown of carbohydrates in food as soon as it enters the mouth. This enzymatic action is a crucial first step in the digestive process. Additionally, saliva helps moisten food, making it easier to swallow.


Are carbohydrates sugar?

Carbohydrates can be sugars or complex carbohydrates like starches. Simple carbohydrates, such as glucose and fructose, are sugars that provide quick energy, while complex carbohydrates, like bread and pasta, take longer to digest and provide sustained energy.