digestion in the mouth

starch

a carbon hydrate made up of large molecules. After we eat sugars or starches, our blood glucose level rises. This signals our body to produce insulin, a hormone, so that cells can take the glucose out of the bloodstream and use it for energy.

amylase

a type of enzyme that breaks down starch into simple sugars.

chemical digestion

involves breaking down the food into simpler nutrients that can be used by the cells. Chemical digestion begins in the mouth when food mixes with saliva.

saliva

liquid containing amylase, helps digestion in the body.

types of foods digested in the mouth

starchy foods.

physical digestion

the physical process of breaking down food into smaller pieces that can easily be accessed by digestive enzymes

mastication

to chew food.

simple sugars

travels down to the blood cells and provides energy for them. The substance that was in starch. the starch was broken down by amylase.

salivary glands

whenever we think of food, our salivary glands give off saliva.

contributions to physical digestion

your teeth and tongue.