Where does the digestion of starches and sugars primarily begin?

The digestion of starches and sugars primarily begins in the mouth due to the enzymatic action of salivary amylase. When food is chewed, it mixes with saliva, which contains this enzyme. Salivary amylase is responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates, such as starches, into simpler sugars like maltose. This initial stage of digestion is crucial because it sets the stage for further breakdown and absorption in the digestive tract.

As food travels down to the stomach, the acidic environment there halts the action of salivary amylase, and the digestion of carbohydrates continues primarily in the small intestine, where other enzymes further break down sugars. However, the key point to understand is that the actual enzymatic digestion begins in the mouth. This early digestion is essential for the body's absorption of carbohydrates and helps in overall digestive efficiency.