Which glands secrete saliva to aid in digestion?

The salivary glands are responsible for secreting saliva, which plays a crucial role in the digestive process. Saliva contains enzymes like amylase that begin the breakdown of carbohydrates in food, making it easier for the digestive system to process. Additionally, saliva helps lubricate food, facilitating swallowing and ensuring that food particles can move smoothly through the esophagus.

In contrast, the pancreas secretes digestive enzymes and hormones, the liver produces bile and processes nutrients from the digestive tract, and the gallbladder stores bile produced by the liver. While these organs are important in digestion, they do not specifically secrete saliva, which is why the salivary glands are the correct answer in this context.