Question

Salivary amylase helps in digestion of which of the following nutrients:

• A. Fats
• B. Vitamins
• C. Starch
• D. Proteins

Hint:

Salivary amylase starts the digestion of starch in the mouth, converting it into maltose and dextrins.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Function of salivary amylase. Salivary amylase is an enzyme secreted by the salivary glands that initiates the breakdown of starch (a carbohydrate) into maltose and dextrins in the mouth during digestion. 

Step 2: Why starch is the correct answer. Salivary amylase specifically acts on polysaccharides like starch, hydrolyzing the glycosidic bonds. It does not act on fats, vitamins, or proteins. 

Step 3: Why other options are incorrect. 
- (A) Fats: Digestion of fats is initiated by lipase, not amylase. 
- (B) Vitamins: Vitamins do not require enzymatic digestion. 
- (D) Proteins: Digestion of proteins begins in the stomach with pepsin, not salivary amylase.