Answer: Saliva initiates digestion by moistening food, breaking it down with enzymes like amylase.
Here are the functions of saliva in the digestion of food:
- Moistens Food: Facilitates easier chewing and swallowing.
- Digests Starches: Contains alpha-amylase to start breaking down starches into simpler sugars by breaking α 1-4 glycosidic bonds.
- Enhances Taste: Acts as a solvent for taste substances.
- Forms Food Bolus: Helps in the formation of a cohesive bolus for swallowing.
- Protects Oral Tissues: Lubricates and buffers to protect against decay and erosion.
- Antimicrobial Properties: Controls bacterial growth, maintaining oral hygiene.
- Supports Oral Health: Contributes to the overall health of the mouth and teeth.
Also, check out our easy-to-read article on the Human Digestive System, if you want to learn more about how our body breaks down food.