Which system governs involuntary functions such as breathing and digesting?

The Autonomic Nervous System is responsible for regulating involuntary functions of the body, including essential processes such as breathing, digestion, heart rate, and glandular activity. This system operates largely unconsciously, managing the activities that happen automatically in order to maintain homeostasis without conscious thought. It consists of two main branches: the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which work together to respond to the body’s needs by regulating internal functions under different conditions.

Other systems mentioned do not have the same role. The Central Nervous System primarily involves voluntary movement and processing sensory information. The Sympathetic Nervous System is a component of the Autonomic Nervous System that prepares the body for stressful situations, but it does not govern all involuntary functions. The Peripheral Nervous System includes all nerves outside the CNS but also does not specifically control involuntary functions; it is more involved in transmitting signals between the CNS and the rest of the body. Therefore, the Autonomic Nervous System is the most accurate answer regarding regulation of involuntary bodily functions.