In which part of the body does carbohydrate digestion begin?

Carbohydrate digestion begins in the mouth, where the salivary glands secrete saliva that contains the enzyme amylase. This enzyme starts the process of breaking down starches into simpler sugars while food is being chewed. The presence of amylase in saliva allows for the initial stages of carbohydrate digestion to occur even before the food reaches the stomach.

As food travels through the digestive system, further breakdown of carbohydrates happens in the small intestine, but the key starting point is in the mouth. This early digestion is significant as it makes the carbohydrates easier to absorb once they reach the intestine. Understanding this process is crucial for recognizing the significance of each stage of digestion and how it contributes to nutrient absorption and overall metabolism.