How does saliva help in the digestion process?

Saliva plays a crucial role in the initial stages of digestion by breaking down food.

Saliva's contribution to digestion comes primarily from the enzymes it contains. Here's a breakdown:

• Enzymatic Action: Saliva contains enzymes, which are proteins that act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions. In this case, these enzymes break down food molecules.
• Amylase: Saliva contains amylase, a vital enzyme that targets starches (complex carbohydrates). It breaks them down into simpler sugars that the body can absorb more easily. For example, amylase starts working on a piece of bread in your mouth, breaking down the complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars, making it easier for your body to digest and use the energy.
• Lingual Lipase: Saliva also contains lingual lipase, an enzyme that starts the breakdown of fats.

In summary, saliva is a crucial first step in the digestion process due to the presence of amylase, which begins the breakdown of starches into sugars, and lingual lipase, which initiates fat digestion. This enzymatic action prepares the food for further digestion and absorption in the stomach and intestines.