Salivary amylase, an enzyme secreted with the saliva, acts on the long polysaccharide units that make up starch, to form disaccharides called maltose. The action of salivary amylase continues until the potato reaches the stomach. The acidic digestive juices in the stomach stop enzyme activity.
How does the body break down potatoes?
Like any other carb-containing food, potatoes increase blood sugar levels. When you eat them, your body breaks down the carbs into simple sugars that move into your bloodstream. This is what's often called a spike in blood sugar levels ( 1 ).
What helps digest potatoes?
After cooling, the potato's starch structure changes resulting in slower digestion and thus a lower glycemic response. You can eat them cold (think potato salad) or reheat them. Combine the potatoes with some healthy fat (olive oil) and/or lemon juice or vinegar.
What enzymes break down starches?
Digestion of carbohydrates is performed by several enzymes. Starch and glycogen are broken down into glucose by amylase and maltase. Sucrose (table sugar) and lactose (milk sugar) are broken down by sucrase and lactase, respectively.
Which enzymes break down which foods?
What Are Digestive Enzymes?Amylase breaks down carbs and starches.Protease works on proteins.Lipase handles fats.
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