What is the vagus nerve The vagus nerve is an important part of the human body:
It extends from the brainstem through to the abdomen. Connecting many organs & muscles together. It plays a key role in our health & wellbeing.
Its primary function is to regulate various physiological processes within the body. Including heart rate & digestion.
It plays an integral role in hormonal interaction. Helping to keep stress hormones such as cortisol & adrenaline in check.
Proper health & wellbeing are not possible without a healthy vagus nerve. Making it essential for all us to look after this important part of our anatomy.
Foods to stimulate the Vagus Nerve:
- Eggs
- Sunflower seeds.
- Organ meats.
- Beef
- Chicken
- Fish
- Red potatoes.
- Kidney beans.
- Spinach
- Seeds
- Nuts
- Banana
Ways to stimulate the Vagus Nerve through activities such as:
- Deep breathing
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Positive thought & social connections
- Laughter
- Exercise Singing
- Massage
- Tai Chi
- Zinc
- Probiotics https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5056568/
- Consider intermittent fasting https://www.nutritionalhealthenterprises.com/intermittent-fasting/
This can be an effective way of boosting health and wellbeing. As well as reducing levels of stress hormones in the body.
By taking care to look after our vagal health, we can help to ensure that our bodies remain healthy and strong.
The vagus nerve plays a critical role in influencing the parasympathetic nervous system.
What does the vagus nerve activation influence:
- The stress response
- Mood
- Immune function
- Digestion
- Heart rate
- Can modulate the monoaminergic brain system.
- Chief link between the gastrointestinal tract & brain relationship known as the brain-gut axis https://www.nutritionalhealthenterprises.com/brain-to-gut-connection/
The vagus nerve is a modulator of various psychiatric conditions:
- Depression,
- Anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- These are linked to gastrointestinal problems & inflammation
Summary:
What is the Vagus nerve? – The health of this part of our anatomy should be a priority.
If we take the time to understand the importance of this nerve, we can ensure that our health remains in top condition.
Having a healthy lifestyle & taking more time for self care, whether it is meditation, exercise, massage, deep breathing or watching a comedy show. Your body will love you for it & respond accordingly.
