Which enzyme digests carbohydrates in the body?

The enzyme that digests carbohydrates in the body is pancreatic amylase. This enzyme is produced by the pancreas and plays a crucial role in the digestive process by breaking down complex carbohydrates, such as starches, into simpler sugars like maltose and glucose. This breakdown occurs mainly in the small intestine after the food has been partially digested in the stomach.

Other enzymes mentioned, while important in digestion, are responsible for different macronutrients. Pepsin is primarily involved in protein digestion in the stomach. Trypsin also aids in protein digestion in the small intestine, continuing the work started by pepsin. Lactase, while involved in carbohydrate digestion, specifically breaks down lactose, the sugar found in milk. However, pancreatic amylase has a broader action on various carbohydrate types, making it the primary enzyme for this function.