autonomic nervous system

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autonomic nervous system (ANS) Part of the body's nervous system that regulates the body's involuntary functions. It helps to regulate the body's internal environment by controlling the rate of heart beat, peristalsis (movements of food through the digestive tract) and sweating. This system is also part of an individual's emotional response, such as blushing and a quickened heartbeat. See also homeostasis; involuntary muscle

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