What is the role of saliva in the digestion of food ?
A. Saliva is a fluid which is secreted by the salivary glands. It helps in digestion of food by following Ways.
- Saliva contains a digestive enzyme called salivary amylase, which converts carbohydrates in to maltose sugars.
- It cleans the mouth cavity and tends to destroy germs that cause teeth decay. It contains lysozomes which help in destroying the bacteria.
- It moistens and lubricates food which again helps in swallowing.
- It acts as solvent, dissolving some food particles to stimulate taste buds of the tongue.