Salivation, secretion of digestive juices, and blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract are governed by the ___________ nervous system.
A) autonomic
B) sympathetic
C) parasympathetic
D) somatic
E) enteric

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Salivation, secretion of digestive juices, and blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract are all functions of the parasympathetic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary actions, including those of the gastrointestinal tract, and consists of both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. The sympathetic division is responsible for the "fight or flight" response and inhibits digestive functions, while the parasympathetic division stimulates digestive functions. The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements, and the enteric nervous system is a network of neurons within the gastrointestinal tract itself that regulates local reflexes.

Salivation, Secretion of Digestive Juices, and Blood Flow to the Gastrointestinal