Stimulated digestion is to inhibited digestion as the nervous system is to the _ nervous system.
A. somatic; autonomic B. autonomic; somatic C. central; peripheral D. sympathetic; parasympathetic E. parasympathetic; sympathetic
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D. sympathetic; parasympathetic.
Explanation:
In the context of the nervous system, digestion is primarily regulated by the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which consists of two main branches: the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. These systems work in opposition to maintain homeostasis in the body.
- Sympathetic Nervous System: This system is responsible for the “fight or flight” response. When activated, it prepares the body for stressful situations by inhibiting non-essential functions, such as digestion. During times of stress or danger, the sympathetic nervous system diverts blood flow away from the digestive organs, decreases peristalsis (the contractions that move food through the digestive tract), and inhibits secretions from digestive glands. This results in inhibited digestion, allowing the body to focus its energy on immediate survival needs.
- Parasympathetic Nervous System: In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system is often described as promoting the “rest and digest” response. It is activated during periods of rest and relaxation, encouraging activities that occur when the body is not under stress. The parasympathetic system stimulates digestion by increasing blood flow to the digestive organs, enhancing peristalsis, and promoting the secretion of digestive enzymes and hormones. This leads to stimulated digestion, allowing the body to process food efficiently and absorb nutrients.
Thus, the relationship between stimulated digestion and inhibited digestion directly correlates with the functions of the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems, respectively. When the parasympathetic nervous system is active, digestion is stimulated; when the sympathetic nervous system is dominant, digestion is inhibited. This balance is crucial for the body’s ability to respond to different situations effectively while maintaining overall health.