GLOSSARY

Pylorus is the gastric outlet toward the duodenum, whose movement and sphincter regulate passage.

The stomach stores and mixes food and regulates release into the intestine. Acid supports protein denaturation and pepsin function, but does not complete all digestion. Denaturation changes protein folding rather than cutting every peptide bond. An empty-feeling stomach does not establish completed meal absorption; intestinal stages remain important. Stomach handling and systemic nutrient delivery therefore require separate interpretation when planning exercise after eating.

Hydrochloric acid is part of gastric juice and supports particular digestive processes. Mucus and surface bicarbonate help protect the tissue; a healthy stomach is not an unprotected bag of acid. Acidity changes with meals and medicines. Heartburn alone does not prove low acid and is not a reason to take acid products or stop prescribed medication without appropriate clinical review.

Gastric emptying moves contents into the duodenum, responding to volume, physical form, energy and intestinal feedback. Fat and meal composition modify the process; no exact time fits all foods. Faster emptying does not necessarily mean greater absorption or better tolerance. Intense exercise and heat can increase discomfort, so meal plans should be rehearsed under conditions resembling the intended event rather than selected by speed claims alone.