Saliva has so many functions!

In everyone's impression, saliva is just something dispensable, but facts have proved that this idea is extremely wrong. Saliva has many functions, including anti-cancer, tooth protection, digestion, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and so on.

1. Anti-cancer effect

Japanese researchers have found that saliva can eliminate superoxide free radicals produced by carcinogens. The disinfection process of saliva not only takes place in the mouth, but also lasts for 30 minutes in the stomach. Chewing each mouthful of food 30 times can allow saliva and food to be fully mixed, clearing free radicals to the greatest extent, achieving the best anti-cancer effect.

2. Tooth protection

The nutrients contained in saliva, such as sodium, potassium, phosphate, calcium, protein, glucose, etc., can maintain the acidity and alkalinity of the oral cavity and regulate the pH value. The dissolution and deposition of enamel on the tooth surface is a dynamic process. Calcium ions, phosphate ions and fluoride ions in saliva play an important role in protecting enamel.

3. Digestion

Saliva can "bundle" chewed food into "food balls", making it easier to swallow. At the same time, saliva contains amylase, which can break down the starch in food into maltose, which not only makes people feel sweetness but also allows food to enter the digestion process in the mouth.

4. Anti-aging effect

Saliva contains a "parotid hormone" that can keep people young, make people smart, have strong teeth and strong muscles, so that even in old age, people will have rosy complexion and remain youthful and energetic.

5. Anti-inflammatory effect

Saliva contains antibacterial components such as lysozyme and secretory immunoglobulin A, which can inhibit or eliminate hemolytic streptococci, typhoid bacilli, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, thereby preventing inflammation of the gums, mouth and throat.

6. Cleaning effect

The average daily saliva secretion per person can reach 1000-1500 ml. Food residues accumulate in the human mouth, creating conditions for bacterial growth. The constant flow of saliva in the mouth is equivalent to timely cleaning of the teeth, thus keeping the mouth clean and healthy.