Question

The first step in digestion starts with _____. tongue esophagus saliva

Answer 1

Saliva

Saliva contains an enzyme called salivary amylase. 

Salivary amylase is an enzyme that breaks down complex carbohydrates molecules into simple or smaller carbohydrate molecules  called maltose. The enzyme acts on carbohydrates in the mouth, initiating the process of digestion.

Salivary amylase  is made by the salivary glands in the mouth. Maltose is later converted to glucose in the small intestine by another type of amylase called pancreatic amylase.