True or False: The nervous system regulates heart and breathing rate.

The statement is true because the nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating both heart rate and breathing rate through the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system consists of two main divisions: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, which increases heart rate and breathing rate during stressful situations or physical activity. Conversely, the parasympathetic nervous system promotes the 'rest and digest' state, which decreases heart rate and slows down breathing, helping the body to conserve energy and recover.

This regulation occurs continuously, allowing the body to adapt to varying levels of activity and ensuring that oxygen and nutrients are delivered to tissues appropriately, whether at rest, during sleep, or while exercising. Therefore, the nervous system's ability to control these vital functions makes the statement accurate.