Which enzyme primarily digests fats?

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Prepare for the TCC Nutrition 101 Test. Study effectively through multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Ensure you're ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which enzyme primarily digests fats?

Explanation:
Fats are digested mainly by lipase. Lipase catalyzes the breakdown of triglycerides, the primary form of dietary fat, into fatty acids and glycerol. The pancreas releases pancreatic lipase into the small intestine, where fats are emulsified by bile to maximize the enzyme’s access to the fat droplets. There is some lipase in the stomach and mouth, but the bulk of fat digestion occurs with pancreatic lipase in the small intestine. The other enzymes listed target different nutrients: protease digests proteins, lactase breaks down the sugar lactose, and amylase digests starch. Hence, lipase is the enzyme most responsible for fat digestion.

Fats are digested mainly by lipase. Lipase catalyzes the breakdown of triglycerides, the primary form of dietary fat, into fatty acids and glycerol. The pancreas releases pancreatic lipase into the small intestine, where fats are emulsified by bile to maximize the enzyme’s access to the fat droplets. There is some lipase in the stomach and mouth, but the bulk of fat digestion occurs with pancreatic lipase in the small intestine. The other enzymes listed target different nutrients: protease digests proteins, lactase breaks down the sugar lactose, and amylase digests starch. Hence, lipase is the enzyme most responsible for fat digestion.

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