What is the cephalic phase in the digestive process?

• A. The phase where nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine.
• B. The phase where the sight, smell, and thought of food trigger neural responses to prepare the stomach for digestion.
• C. The phase where bile is produced by the liver to aid in fat digestion.
• D. The phase where digestion begins in the stomach with the secretion of gastric juices.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the different phases of digestion: cephalic, gastric, and intestinal.
2. The cephalic phase is the first phase of digestion, triggered by the sight, smell, and thought of food.
3. During the cephalic phase, neural responses are activated, primarily involving the central nervous system.
4. These neural responses stimulate the secretion of gastric juices in the stomach, preparing it for digestion.
5. Recognize that the cephalic phase does not involve nutrient absorption or bile production; these occur in later phases.