Which part of the brain controls the autonomic functions of the body?

The brainstem is responsible for controlling the autonomic functions of the body, which include essential functions such as heart rate, breathing, digestion, and sleep cycles. The brainstem consists of structures like the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata, all of which play critical roles in regulating these involuntary processes essential for survival.

While the hypothalamus also has a significant role in regulating autonomic functions, it acts more as a control center or mediator that influences the activities of the brainstem and other parts of the autonomic nervous system. Therefore, while the hypothalamus is important and works in conjunction with the brainstem, it is the brainstem that directly manages these vital, automatic functions. The cerebrum and cerebellum, on the other hand, are more involved in voluntary motor control and coordination, as well as higher cognitive functions, rather than directly controlling auto-regulatory bodily functions.