Which organ is responsible for breaking down starches, fats, and proteins?

The pancreas plays a crucial role in the digestive process by secreting enzymes that break down starches, fats, and proteins. It produces a variety of digestive enzymes, including amylase for carbohydrates (starches), lipase for fats, and proteases for proteins. These enzymes are released into the small intestine, where they operate in the alkaline environment created by bicarbonate, which the pancreas also secretes. This coordinated effort allows for the efficient digestion of macronutrients, enabling the body to absorb and utilize them effectively.

In contrast, while the stomach is involved in the digestion of proteins and has a role in the overall digestive process, it primarily breaks down food through mechanical and acidic means rather than by using enzymes. The liver's main function involves the production of bile to aid in fat digestion and the metabolism of nutrients but does not directly break down starches, fats, or proteins. Lastly, the small intestine is the site of nutrient absorption and finishes the digestion process, but it does not produce the digestive enzymes itself; that task is primarily performed by the pancreas.