What are the three phases of gastric secretion?

The three phases of gastric secretion are indeed the cephalic, gastric, and intestinal phases.

In the cephalic phase, the anticipation of food and sensory stimuli (such as the sight, smell, and taste of food) trigger the brain to signal the stomach to prepare for digestion. This phase stimulates gastric secretions even before food enters the stomach.

The gastric phase follows, which occurs once food enters the stomach. This phase is characterized by the secretion of gastric acid and enzymes that continue the digestion process, aided by the physical presence of the food. Stretching of the stomach wall and the presence of peptides in the stomach stimulate gastric secretions in this phase.

Finally, the intestinal phase occurs as partially digested food moves into the small intestine. This phase involves the regulation of gastric secretion in response to the contents of the small intestine, as intestinal hormones and local feedback mechanisms are activated to ensure that gastric activity is balanced with the digestive needs of the intestine.

The other options do not accurately define the phases of gastric secretion. The digestive, storage, and elimination phases refer to broader processes in digestion, while absorption, secretion, and metabolism cover more general functions of the gastrointestinal system but do not pertain specifically to gastric secretion. Similarly, oral,