Evaluating the role of Salivary α-Amylase and Associated Enzymes in Carbohydrate Digestion and Gastrointestinal Function: A Comprehensive Systematic Review Perspective
Keywords:
Salivary α-Amylase, Disaccharidase, Carbohydrate Metabolism, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Systematic Review, Metabolic HealthAbstract
Background: Salivary α-amylase, sucrase, lactase, and maltase enzymes demonstrate an important role in carbohydrate metabolism and gastrointestinal function. Changes in enzymatic activity impact starch digestion, gut fermentation, insulin sensitivity, and digestive health. This systematic review aimed to evaluate how salivary α-amylase, sucrase, lactase, and maltase levels influence metabolic outcomes, carbohydrate digestion, and gastrointestinal functions. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines 2020. Research was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar from 2016 to 2025. The studies involving salivary α-amylase, sucrase, lactase, and maltase activities in relation to metabolic and gastrointestinal outcomes were included. Non-human research or studies lacking outcome measurements were excluded. The appropriate tools were used for evaluating risk of bias according to the study designs whereas, quality of study was evaluated using GRADE approach. Results: The included eleven studies revealed that higher levels of salivary α-amylase, sucrase, lactase, and maltase were linked to improved gastrointestinal functions, such as greater insulin sensitivity and a lower risk of obesity. The risk of bias of most studies was measured as low to moderate and GRADE rated certainty of evidence as moderate. Conclusion: Salivary α-amylase, sucrase, lactase, and maltase activities might be useful indicators of metabolic health and digestion. Additional research is needed to clarify their use in clinical applications and personalized nutrition.
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