PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF SALIVA: COMPOSITION AND ROLE IN THE INITIAL STAGES OF DIGESTION

Saliva is a vital biological fluid that plays an essential role in maintaining oral health and facilitating digestion. Produced by the salivary glands, saliva contains water, electrolytes, mucus, antimicrobial agents, and digestive enzymes. This article examines the physiological importance of saliva, with particular emphasis on its composition, its role in moistening and softening food, and its contribution to the early stages of digestion. Understanding the multifunctional nature of saliva is crucial for appreciating its significance in both oral and systemic health.