The parasympathetic nervous system influences digestion by:
a. Relaxing smooth muscle
b. Stimulating peristalsis and secretory activity
c. Constricting sphincters
d. None of these

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the role of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) in the autonomic nervous system, which primarily promotes 'rest and digest' activities.

Step 2: Recall that the PNS generally stimulates digestive processes, including increasing motility and secretions to aid digestion.

Step 3: Analyze each option in the context of PNS effects: (a) Relaxing smooth muscle would generally decrease digestion, which is not typical of PNS action; (b) Stimulating peristalsis and secretory activity aligns with the PNS role in promoting digestion; (c) Constricting sphincters would inhibit movement of food, which is contrary to PNS function.

Step 4: Conclude that the correct description of the PNS influence on digestion is stimulating peristalsis (muscle contractions moving food) and secretory activity (release of digestive enzymes and fluids).

Step 5: Therefore, the best answer is the option that states the PNS stimulates peristalsis and secretory activity.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

The parasympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for 'rest and digest' activities. It promotes bodily functions that conserve energy and enhance digestion, such as increasing glandular secretions and smooth muscle activity in the gastrointestinal tract.

Peristalsis

Peristalsis refers to the coordinated, wave-like contractions of smooth muscle in the digestive tract that move food along the gastrointestinal system. The parasympathetic nervous system stimulates peristalsis to facilitate the movement and processing of food.

Secretory Activity in Digestion

Secretory activity involves the release of digestive enzymes and fluids from glands in the digestive system. Parasympathetic stimulation enhances this secretion, aiding in the breakdown of food and absorption of nutrients.

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