The small intestine produces amylase, protease, and also lipase as key digestive enzymes. In addition to these, the small intestine releases other enzymes like maltase, lactase, and sucrase which help break down specific sugars.
- Amylase breaks down starches into simpler sugars.
- Protease breaks down proteins into amino acids.
- Lipase breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
- Maltase breaks down maltose into glucose.
- Lactase breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.
- Sucrase breaks down sucrose into glucose and fructose.
Thus, besides amylase and protease, the small intestine notably produces lipase and several other disaccharidases such as maltase, lactase, and sucrase that aid in the digestion of carbohydrates and fats.
