A "bolus" is a term used in medicine and biology to describe a small, rounded mass of substance. In the context of digestion, it refers to the chewed food that is formed in the mouth and then swallowed. The bolus moves down the esophagus into the stomach, where it begins to be broken down further. In diabetes management, a bolus can also refer to a specific dose of insulin administered to control blood sugar levels after eating. This helps the body process carbohydrates from food effectively, ensuring that glucose levels remain stable.