Which nervous system controls the alimentary canal?

Which nervous system controls the alimentary canal?

• A. Central nervous system
• B. Autonomic nervous system
• C. Somatic nervous system
• D. Peripheral nervous system

Answer: (B)

Digestion is governed by the autonomic nervous system, which handles involuntary function of internal organs. Its parasympathetic division promotes digestion by increasing gut motility and secretions, while the sympathetic division can slow or pause digestion during stress. The gut also contains its own enteric nervous system, capable of local reflexes, but it operates under modulation from autonomic nerves for full regulation. The central nervous system influences autonomic activity but does not directly run gut movements, and the somatic system controls voluntary skeletal muscles rather than digestion. So the autonomic nervous system is the primary controller of the alimentary canal.

Digestion is governed by the autonomic nervous system, which handles involuntary function of internal organs. Its parasympathetic division promotes digestion by increasing gut motility and secretions, while the sympathetic division can slow or pause digestion during stress. The gut also contains its own enteric nervous system, capable of local reflexes, but it operates under modulation from autonomic nerves for full regulation. The central nervous system influences autonomic activity but does not directly run gut movements, and the somatic system controls voluntary skeletal muscles rather than digestion. So the autonomic nervous system is the primary controller of the alimentary canal.