What physiological changes occur in the body due to stress?

What physiological changes occur in the body due to stress?

• A. Decreased heart rate and blood pressure
• B. Increased insulin production
• C. Increased heart rate and cortisol levels
• D. Enhanced digestion and absorption

Answer: (C)

The correct option accurately reflects the body's physiological response to stress, which involves activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the adrenal glands. When an individual experiences stress, the body triggers the "fight or flight" response, leading to several significant changes. One of the primary responses is an increase in heart rate, which helps pump more blood to muscles and vital organs, preparing the body to either confront or flee from the stressor. Additionally, cortisol, a key stress hormone released by the adrenal glands, plays a crucial role in this response. It helps mobilize energy stores, reduces non-essential functions (like digestion), and supports the body’s ability to manage prolonged stress. In contrast, options referring to decreased heart rate and blood pressure, increased insulin production, and enhanced digestion and absorption do not align with the stress response. During stress, the body prioritizes immediate survival over long-term physiological functions such as digestion or insulin regulation, which would typically be enhanced in a relaxed state. Understanding these changes is essential when discussing how stress impacts overall health and physiological function.

The correct option accurately reflects the body's physiological response to stress, which involves activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the adrenal glands. When an individual experiences stress, the body triggers the "fight or flight" response, leading to several significant changes.

One of the primary responses is an increase in heart rate, which helps pump more blood to muscles and vital organs, preparing the body to either confront or flee from the stressor. Additionally, cortisol, a key stress hormone released by the adrenal glands, plays a crucial role in this response. It helps mobilize energy stores, reduces non-essential functions (like digestion), and supports the body’s ability to manage prolonged stress.

In contrast, options referring to decreased heart rate and blood pressure, increased insulin production, and enhanced digestion and absorption do not align with the stress response. During stress, the body prioritizes immediate survival over long-term physiological functions such as digestion or insulin regulation, which would typically be enhanced in a relaxed state. Understanding these changes is essential when discussing how stress impacts overall health and physiological function.