Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions. Most digestive enzymes end in -ase and are named after what they break down: lipase breaks down lipids (fats), protease breaks down proteins.
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Amylase
amyl (starch) + ase
Breaks down starches into sugars. Starts working in your mouth - that's why bread tastes sweet if you chew it long enough.
📍 Mouth (saliva) & Pancreas
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Protease
protein + ase
Breaks down proteins into amino acids. Your body rebuilds these into muscles, skin, and other tissues.
📍 Stomach & Small intestine
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Lipase
lipid (fat) + ase
Breaks down fats into fatty acids. Without it, fat passes through undigested (not pleasant).
📍 Pancreas & Small intestine
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Lactase
lactose + ase
Breaks down lactose (milk sugar). If you don't make enough, you're lactose intolerant.
📍 Small intestine
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Telomerase
telomere + ase
Rebuilds the protective caps on your DNA. More active = cells can divide longer. Linked to aging research.
📍 Cells (especially stem cells)
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Alcohol Dehydrogenase
dehydrogenase = removes hydrogen
Breaks down alcohol in your liver. Some people have less of it (Asian flush). Determines how fast you sober up.