Easy1 markMultiple Choice
The Human Body and Movement in Physical Activity and SportCardiovascular SystemEffects of ExerciseVascular Shunt

AQA GCSE · Question 07 · The Human Body and Movement in Physical Activity and Sport

Which one of these describes what happens to the digestive system's blood supply during exercise?

Answer options:

A.

Blood supply increases

B.

Blood supply reduces

C.

Blood supply remains the same

How to approach this question

Consider the body's priorities during exercise. The working muscles need more oxygen. Think about where this extra blood comes from.

Full Answer

B.Blood supply reduces✓ Correct
The correct answer is B. During exercise, blood is redirected away from non-essential organs like the digestive system towards the working muscles to supply them with more oxygen and nutrients. This process is called vascular shunting.
During exercise, the body's demand for oxygen in the skeletal muscles increases significantly. To meet this demand, the cardiovascular system redistributes blood flow. Vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) occurs in arteries supplying non-essential organs like the stomach and intestines, reducing their blood supply. Simultaneously, vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) occurs in arteries supplying the working muscles, increasing their blood supply. This ensures that oxygen is delivered where it is needed most.

Common mistakes

Thinking that all body systems receive more blood during exercise.

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