What is the relationship between metabolic stress and nutrient absorption?

Metabolic stress negatively impacts nutrient absorption efficiency. During periods of stress, animals experience physiological changes that can hinder digestion and nutrient uptake. Stress can trigger the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can lead to changes in blood flow to the digestive tract, resulting in reduced nutrient transport to absorptive cells. Additionally, stress may alter gut permeability and affect the balance of gut microbiota, further impairing nutrient absorption.

Increased metabolic rates during stress can also elevate energy and nutrient demands, creating a mismatch between nutrient availability and physiological needs. Poor absorption efficiency can result in suboptimal growth, reduced immune function, and overall compromised health in livestock.

While the other options touch on aspects of stress and digestion, they do not align with established understanding. Stress does not typically enhance nutrient absorption or lead to an increase in digestive enzyme production; rather, it generally impairs these functions. Therefore, the correct understanding is that stress decreases metabolic absorption efficiency, impacting livestock health and productivity.