The enzyme in saliva that begins carbohydrate digestion is _____.
Answer
amylase
Explanation
The answer is **amylase**, which the lecture identifies as beginning carbohydrate digestion in the mouth. Saliva also softens, moistens, and lubricates food, but those physical functions are distinct from the enzyme’s digestive role. Recognizing that digestion begins in the oral cavity helps connect salivary secretion to the broader GI function of breaking food into absorbable units. **Key takeaway:** Salivary amylase initiates carbohydrate digestion.\n\n**Glossary:**\n- **Amylase**: Enzyme in saliva that begins carbohydrate digestion.\n- **Carbohydrate digestion**: Breakdown of carbohydrate food components.
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