Final answer:
The sympathetic nervous system inhibits GI tract activities, which is the opposite effect of the parasympathetic nervous system that stimulates these activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system have opposing effects on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. When it comes to propelling and mixing movements in the GI tract, the sympathetic nervous system inhibits these actions, which is the opposite effect compared to the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic system, often associated with the 'rest-and-digest' state, increases secretion and motility within the GI tract, nurturing the digestive process.