Stimulated digestion is to inhibited digestion as the
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Answer:
Stimulated digestion is to inhibited digestion as sympathetic nervous system is to parasympathetic nervous system.
Explanation
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is responsible for involuntary body functions such as heart rate, respiratory rate, digestion, and pupil response. It has two main branches: the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which work in opposition to maintain balance (homeostasis) in the body.
The parasympathetic nervous system is often referred to as the “rest and digest” system. It stimulates digestion by increasing the activity of the digestive tract, enhancing secretion of digestive enzymes, and promoting the motility of the gastrointestinal system. When you’re relaxed and at rest, the parasympathetic system becomes dominant, ensuring that food is properly broken down and absorbed.
In contrast, the sympathetic nervous system is called the “fight or flight” system. It inhibits digestion during times of stress, danger, or physical exertion. This is because during these times, energy is redirected away from non-essential functions like digestion and toward critical systems like the muscles and brain. The sympathetic system reduces blood flow to the digestive tract, slows peristalsis (the wave-like movement of the intestines), and decreases enzyme production.
So, if we compare:
- Stimulated digestion (active digestive processes) is a result of parasympathetic activity.
- Inhibited digestion (reduced digestive activity) occurs under sympathetic influence.
Therefore, the relationship between stimulated digestion and inhibited digestion mirrors the relationship between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems respectively.
This analogy helps us understand how the body shifts its priorities depending on the situation. During calm states, it focuses on maintenance activities like digestion. During stress or emergencies, it suspends those functions to deal with immediate challenges. Understanding this balance is crucial in fields such as medicine, psychology, and stress management.
