Question What is the role of the nervous system in digestion?(1 point) Responses to provide enzymes to provide enzymes to provide electrical signals to initiate peristalsis to provide electrical signals to initiate peristalsis to provide oxygen to provide oxygen to provide passage of nutrients throughout the body
The role of the nervous system in digestion is to provide electrical signals to initiate peristalsis.
The role of the nervous system in digestion is to provide electrical signals to initiate peristalsis.
The role of the nervous system in digestion is to provide electrical signals to initiate peristalsis. Peristalsis is the process of rhythmic contractions that push food through the digestive tract. These contractions are essential for the movement of food, mixing it with digestive enzymes and ensuring proper absorption of nutrients.
To understand how the nervous system initiates peristalsis, let's take a closer look at the digestive process. When you eat, sensory receptors located in the walls of the digestive organs send signals to the brain, which then activates the autonomic nervous system.
The autonomic nervous system consists of two branches: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. In the case of digestion, the parasympathetic system plays a vital role. It stimulates the release of acetylcholine, which activates the smooth muscles in the walls of the digestive organs.
These smooth muscles are responsible for the peristaltic contractions. When activated by the nervous system, they contract and relax in a coordinated manner, creating a wave-like movement that pushes food along the digestive tract. This process allows for the proper breakdown and absorption of nutrients.
In summary, the nervous system's role in digestion is to provide electrical signals that initiate peristalsis, ensuring the movement of food through the digestive system.