What is the main function of salivary amylase?

The primary function of salivary amylase is to hydrolyze starch in the mouth. Salivary amylase is an enzyme produced by the salivary glands that initiates the digestion process by breaking down complex carbohydrates, such as starch, into simpler sugars, like maltose. This enzymatic activity begins as soon as food enters the mouth, thus facilitating the overall digestion process even before food reaches the stomach.

This action is crucial because it allows for the effective breakdown of starches into more manageable sugars that can be further processed during digestion. The presence of salivary amylase in saliva aids in making the first step of carbohydrate digestion happen quickly and efficiently, which is essential for proper nutritional absorption later in the digestive process.