Final answer:
The step in the process of gastric digestion that involves the stimulation of G cells to secrete gastrin is the further digestion of proteins.
Step-by-step explanation:
The step in the process of gastric digestion that involves the stimulation of G cells to secrete gastrin is c) Further digestion of proteins.
When partially digested proteins, caffeine, and rising pH stimulate the release of gastrin from enteroendocrine G cells, it triggers parietal cells to increase their production of HCl. This increase in HCl is necessary to create an acidic environment for the conversion of pepsinogen to pepsin, which aids in further digestion of proteins.
The release of gastrin also activates vigorous smooth muscle contractions to help mix the stomach contents for digestion.