Heart rate regulation

Heart rate regulation involves the body's complex system that controls how fast your heart beats to meet your needs. The brain’s autonomic nervous system adjusts heart rate through two main pathways: the sympathetic nervous system speeds it up during activity or stress, while the parasympathetic nervous system slows it down during rest. Additionally, specialized sensors in the body monitor oxygen and carbon dioxide levels and blood pressure, relaying information that fine-tunes heart function. This regulation ensures your heart supplies enough oxygen-rich blood efficiently, adapting to changes in activity, emotion, and overall health.