Which of the following best explains why emotions such as anger or fear can slow digestion?

• A. They cause the stomach to produce more acid, leading to faster digestion.
• B. They increase the release of digestive enzymes, speeding up digestion.
• C. They stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, enhancing digestive activity.
• D. They activate the sympathetic nervous system, which inhibits digestive processes.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the autonomic nervous system in regulating digestion, which includes the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
2. Recognize that the parasympathetic nervous system generally promotes 'rest and digest' activities, enhancing digestion by increasing digestive enzyme secretion and stomach motility.
3. Know that the sympathetic nervous system is activated during stress or emotional arousal (such as anger or fear) and prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses.
4. Identify that activation of the sympathetic nervous system inhibits digestive processes by reducing blood flow to the stomach and slowing down the production of digestive enzymes and stomach motility.
5. Conclude that emotions like anger or fear slow digestion because they activate the sympathetic nervous system, which suppresses digestive activity rather than enhancing it.