Final answer:
Salivary glands secrete enzymes, minerals, and mucous in saliva. Enzymes like salivary amylase initiate carbohydrate breakdown, minerals maintain pH, and mucous lubricates food. Saliva also contains immune mediators.
Step-by-step explanation:
Salivary glands secrete a complex mixture of substances, including enzymes, minerals, and mucous. The enzymes in saliva, such as salivary amylase, help initiate the breakdown of carbohydrates in food. Minerals present in saliva include ions that function as chemical buffers to maintain pH, while mucous lubricates food and facilitates swallowing. Saliva also contains immune mediators like immunoglobulin A and lysozyme, which help prevent microbial infections.