Regulation;

Neural:
• There are two ‘nerve nets’ (plexuses) in GI tract
that contain neurons and interneurons
– sub mucosal (Meissner)
– Myenteric (Auerbach)
• Plexuses = brain of the gut
– stimulated by stretch (bolus of food), chemicals,
and stomach content (local stimuli)
• Activity of plexuses can be modified by central
nervous system and the autonomic nervous
system
• Neural regulation via autonomic nervous system
– GI tract receives both sympathetic and
parasympathetic innervations
• Parasympathetic via vagus nerve and spinal nerves
in sacral region (to lower portion of large intestine)
→ stimulates motility and secretion; favors digestion
• Sympathetic
→ reduces motility and secretory activity and
stimulates sphincter contraction
Hormonal.
• Paracrine regulation
– production of hormone-like molecules that are
produced in one cell and travel through
interstitial fluid (not bloodstream) to affect
activity of nearby cells
• Hormone regulation
– production of hormones that are released into
the bloodstream and carried to target tissues
within digestive system where they affect
digestive activity
 Aging Effects on Digestive System
• Neural coordination diminished
• Biochemical changes
– reductions in levels of digestive enzymes and
hormones
– decreased sensitivity to stimuli (hormones and
other stimuli)
• Vascular changes
– vascular supply diminished
• Collectively, changes may result in
compromised nutrition in the elderly
 Alcohol
• Alcohol
– in small amounts = stimulant and relaxant
– in higher doses = CNS depressant and toxicant for
brain and stomach (causes headache and nausea
associated with hangover)
• Chronic long-term use increases anxiety
• Tolerance develops
– requires ingestion of more alcohol for same effects