Saliva's Role in Digestion: What It Breaks Down & What's Needed

Saliva is the first digestive fluid produced in the body. It is produced by the salivary glands and contains enzymes that break down carbohydrates. However, saliva alone cannot digest all foods. Other digestive fluids, such as stomach acid and enzymes produced by the pancreas and small intestine, are also needed to complete the digestion process.