ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -A cow’s rumen is different because it functions like a large food processor. In fact, millions of tiny organisms (mainly bacteria) naturally live in the rumen and help the cow by breaking down plant parts that cannot be digested otherwise. These tiny organisms then release nutrients into the rumen.

Detailed explanation-2: -Saliva contains special enzymes that help digest the starches in your food. An enzyme called amylase breaks down starches (complex carbohydrates) into sugars, which your body can more easily absorb. Saliva also contains an enzyme called lingual lipase, which breaks down fats.

Detailed explanation-3: -Saliva contains the enzyme amylase that breaks some starches down into maltose and dextrin. Thus, digestion of food occurs within the mouth, even before food reaches the stomach. Saliva does not digest the proteins.

Detailed explanation-4: -Saliva aids in chewing and swallowing, contains enzymes for breakdown of fat and starch, and is involved in nitrogen recycling to the rumen. Saliva’s most important function is to buffer pH levels in the reticulum and rumen.