There are three phases of gastric secretion. the cephalic phase occurs a. at the end of a large meal, and the juices secreted are powerful and remain in the gi tract for a long period of time b. when the meal is excessively high in acids and neutralization is required c. before food enters the stomach and is triggered by aroma, sight, or thought d. immediately after food enters the stomach, preparing the small intestine for the influx of a variety of nutrients