Chewing is the process of breaking down food into smaller pieces using the teeth. This mechanical action helps to mix the food with saliva, which contains enzymes that begin the digestion process. Chewing is an essential part of eating, as it makes food easier to swallow and digest. The act of chewing involves various muscles in the jaw, including the masseter and temporalis muscles. Proper chewing can enhance the taste of food and promote better digestion, as smaller food particles are more easily processed by the stomach and intestines. Chewing also signals the body to prepare for digestion by releasing digestive enzymes.