Question

Why is it advisable to relax, read a book or newspaper, or watch television after a meal? Respond in terms of the effects of the autonomic nervous system on digestion.

Answer 1

Autonomous nervous system controls and influences the way of functioning (involuntary and reflexive) of internal organs in our body. It has two subparts: sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system.

Sympathetic nervous system prepares body for actions in getting ready for physical challenges or retreat.

Parasympathetic nervous system acts to maintain the equilibrium state of body.

Relaxing activities like reading a book/newspaper or watching television activate body's parasympathetic system and promote the homeostasis of body. These activities help in digestion by increasing processes aiding digestion and decreasing other activities of physical action. The body undergoes several specific responses when the parasympathetic system is activated: increase in saliva, release of digestive enzymes, decrease in heart rate, constriction of lung bronchial tubes, muscle relaxation. All these processes further support the gastrointestinal system to perform efficient digestion.