The Salivette serves as a clear illustration of how our parotid glands function, demonstrating that they are activated regardless of what we chew. Even in the presence of a non-food item, such as superabsorbent cotton, the parotid glands diligently produce saliva. This highlights their unwavering commitment to aiding in the digestive process, showcasing the body's automatic responses to anticipated food intake.
Mary Roach, in her book "Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal," emphasizes the reliability of our body’s mechanisms. The quote underscores the idea that the parotid glands fulfill their role without bias, ready to assist with digestion based on our actions. This exemplifies the fascinating relationship between our physiological systems and the acts of eating and digestion.