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Where does the process of human digestion begin?

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Diagram of the human digestive system viewed from the front, showing and labeling organs including the mouth, teeth, tongue, salivary glands, pharynx, esophagus, liver, stomach, gallbladder, pancreas, large intestine, small intestine, appendix, rectum, and anus. — human digestive system The human digestive system as seen from the front.

The process of human digestion begins in the mouth. While not all digestion occurs here, the mouth plays a crucial role in preparing food for the rest of the digestive tract. Through chewing, or mastication, food is broken down into smaller particles and mixed with saliva. Saliva lubricates the food, aiding in the formation of a bolus for easier swallowing, and also contains enzymes that begin the chemical breakdown of starches. The tongue assists in this process by kneading and mixing the food.12