Final answer:
An increase in breathing during a fight-or-flight situation supplies more oxygen to power muscles and organs, supported by the sympathetic nervous system's physiological changes. These adaptations optimize the body for immediate action but can deplete energy reserves if sustained.
Step-by-step explanation:
When our body enters a fight-or-flight situation, it triggers a cascade of physiological responses designed to optimize survival. One of the key changes is an increase in breathing. This happens because more oxygen is needed to fuel the muscles and organs, particularly when they are working at a higher capacity, such as during an escape or confrontation. The sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system stimulates the bronchi to dilate, allowing for better air exchange, and increases heart rate and blood pressure, so more oxygen can be transported throughout the body quickly.
During such an intense situation, the body also suppresses systems that are not immediately necessary, like digestion, allowing more blood and oxygen to be diverted to the muscles. This sudden adrenaline rush and physiological alteration help the individual to act quickly, either to fight the threat or to flee to safety. While this response is incredibly beneficial in the short-term, during an actual threat or rigorous physical exercise, it can be detrimental if activated for a prolonged period because it can deplete glucose and glycogen reserves rapidly, leading to exhaustion.