What is the role of the nervous system in digestion?
to provide enzymes
to provide oxygen
to provide electrical signals to initiate peristalsis
to provide passage of nutrients throughout the body
1 answer
The role of the nervous system in digestion is to provide electrical signals to initiate peristalsis. Peristalsis is the rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract that helps move food and waste material through the digestive system. This movement is coordinated by the nervous system, specifically through the enteric nervous system, which is a specialized network of nerves located in the walls of the gastrointestinal tract. The nervous system also plays a role in regulating the secretion of digestive enzymes and hormones, which are necessary for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients.