Salivary amylase is an enzyme found in saliva that helps break down carbohydrates into simpler sugars. It is produced by the salivary glands and begins the digestion process as soon as food enters the mouth. This enzyme is particularly effective on starches, which are common in many foods. When food is chewed, salivary amylase mixes with it, initiating the breakdown of starch into maltose and dextrin. This process continues until the food reaches the stomach, where the acidic environment inactivates the enzyme. Understanding salivary amylase is important for grasping how our bodies digest carbohydrates efficiently.