Summary:
- The sight, smell, or taste of food stimulates the release of digestive enzymes.
- The major salivary enzyme is amylase.
- It begins the chemical digestion of carbohydrates by breaking down starch into sugar.
- Sharp teeth in the front of the mouth cut or tear food when you bite into it.
- The tongue helps mix the food with saliva and also helps you swallow.
- After you swallow, the chewed food passes into the pharynx.
- The stomach is a sac-like organ in which food is further digested both mechanically and chemically.