Final answer:
Intermediate gastric glands produce hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor from parietal cells, as well as various hormones such as gastrin from enteroendocrine cells, aiding in digestion during the gastric phase.
Step-by-step explanation:
The intermediate gastric glands, primarily located in the fundus and body of the stomach, are responsible for the production of most of the gastric secretions involved in the digestion process. Parietal cells in these glands secrete both hydrochloric acid (HCI) and intrinsic factor. Hydrochloric acid ensures a highly acidic environment in the stomach, which activates pepsin, the enzyme necessary for protein digestion, and helps in denaturing proteins and killing bacteria.
The intrinsic factor is crucial for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. Additionally, enteroendocrine cells within the gastric glands produce hormones such as gastrin, which stimulates the secretion of gastric juice during the gastric phase and aids in digestive functions.