What part of the brainstem is responsible for controlling swallowing, breathing, and heart rate?

The medulla oblongata, part of the brainstem, plays a critical role in regulating vital autonomic functions such as swallowing, breathing, and heart rate. It houses vital centers for these functions, which are essential for survival. The medulla processes information from the spinal cord and relays it to other parts of the brain to coordinate these involuntary functions.

In terms of structure, the medulla is located at the base of the brainstem, just above the spinal cord, making it a key player in controlling many reflexive actions tied to life support. Moreover, it contains nuclei that respond to changes in blood chemistry, regulating respiratory and cardiovascular functions accordingly. Because of these responsibilities and its central role in autonomic processes, it is the correct answer to the question regarding which part of the brainstem controls swallowing, breathing, and heart rate.