Carbohydrates are processed in three parts: the mouth, the stomach, and the small intestine. Carbohydrase enzymes convert starch to sugars. Amylase, another starch-digesting enzyme, is present in your saliva. Your stomach acids further break down proteins and carbohydrates. The pancreas produces two types of enzymes: proteases, which break down protein; amylases, which break down starch. Starchy foods include grains such as wheat, corn, and rice as well as vegetables like potatoes and peas. Starchy fruits include bananas and apples. Avoid eating large quantities of starch at one time because it will fill your stomach and cause you to feel bloated later on. Eating more nutritious food options instead may help relieve some of those uncomfortable symptoms. The body uses both carbohydrate digestion enzymes and acid to break down starch. Because acid is needed for other digestive processes too, having more than one way to digest starch can help prevent malnutrition due to a lack of nutrients. Although your body can use enzymes to break down starch, it does so much better when you give it the whole grain instead of just the starchy part. Whole grains contain a variety of components, including fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute beneficial qualities for your health. A healthy diet should consist of several small meals rather than one or two large ones for best results in maintaining a healthy weight.