What enzyme specifically attacks fatty foods?

Lipase is the enzyme specifically responsible for the digestion of fats, or lipids, in the body. It works primarily in the small intestine, where it breaks down triglycerides, the main constituents of dietary fat, into fatty acids and glycerol. This action is crucial for the absorption of these vital nutrient components through the intestinal wall.

Other enzymes listed serve different roles in digestion. Amylase, for instance, is involved in breaking down carbohydrates into simpler sugars. Pepsin is a protease that targets proteins in the acidic environment of the stomach, while trypsin, another protease, continues the process of protein digestion in the small intestine. Since lipase is specifically tailored to target fatty foods, its role in fat metabolism is essential for overall digestive health.