Understanding the Start of Chemical Digestion: The Mouth

Chemical digestion begins in the mouth with the enzyme salivary amylase, which breaks down carbohydrates into smaller sugars. Amylase is produced by the salivary glands and mixed with food as we chew. It starts the process of breaking down starches into simpler sugars, such as maltose and dextrin. This chemical breakdown of carbohydrates continues as the food moves down the digestive tract.