What is the primary effect of sympathetic nervous system stimulation on the sphincters of the gastrointestinal tract?
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Correct answer: Tonic contraction (increased tone)
In general, sympathetic stimulation inhibits the motility of the gut wall (via norepinephrine) but causes contraction of the sphincters (ileocecal, internal anal, etc.), effectively slowing the movement of contents during 'fight or flight'.
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