In Which Direction Does Blood Flow Shift in Response to Exercise

Question

In which direction does blood flow shift in response to exercise?
A) Increased blood flow to kidneys and digestive tract
B) Increased blood flow to skin and skeletal muscles
C) Increased blood flow to abdominal organs and kidneys
D) Decreased blood flow to the heart and skeletal muscles

Accepted Answer

During exercise, the demand for oxygen and nutrients in the skeletal muscles increases, resulting in an increased blood flow to these muscles. Additionally, blood flow to the skin increases in order to dissipate heat generated by exercise. Meanwhile, blood flow to organs such as the kidneys and digestive tract may actually decrease temporarily in order to shunt blood to the muscles and skin. Therefore, the correct answer is increased blood flow to skin and skeletal muscles (choice B).