No Longer Quivering
The next section lays out the seven different effects that fight-or-flight has on the body. Some of the effects are straightforward like pallor (pale skin), dilated pupils, and racing heart. Some are less noticeable but valid like body hair becoming erect (goosebumps), the digestive system shutting down, and dry mouth. The inclusion of “second wind” is a bit shaky.
The fight-or-flight response triggers a fast burst of energy. The “second wind” most people think of is actually related to the release of stored energy when the liver breaks down fat. The problem? This “second wind” occurs after 20 minutes or so of aerobic activity in normal humans and a bit faster in highly trained athletes. It’s not going to help you outrun a bear; it will help you exhaustion hunt a deer.
On the positive side, the term “adrenal gland” is finally introduced – when there’s about 5 paragraphs left in the section. Poor planning since the adrenal gland produces adrenaline.
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In