The Vagus Nerve
Happy Gut and Happy Brain: How the Vagus Nerve Holds the Key
Ever feel like your gut is trying to tell you something? Call it gut instinct. Or maybe you are feeling like a nervous wreck before a presentation followed by a roaring tummy? You know that something in your body's just not quite in sync. You might be surprised to learn that a key player in this could be your vagus nerve.
Most of us are familiar with the vagus nerve these days and some of its roles in the body, but let’s start with clearing up what the vagus nerve is and why you need to look after this precious part of your body.
In Part 1 of this four-part series, we’ll do a refresher on:
the autonomic nervous system
the difference between the parasympathetic & sympathetic nervous systems
what the vagus nerve is and what it does
plus why the vagus nerve and so important and where to go next in your vagal toning
Ok, let’s refresh on what the autonomic nervous system is.
Understanding the Autonomic Nervous System
If you’ve ever noticed your heart rate quicken when you're stressed about being late, or your stomach churn before a job interview, it’s your autonomic nervous system attempting to tell you something. These reactions are orchestrated by your autonomic nervous system (ANS), which works tirelessly behind the scenes to regulate all your involuntary functions, from digestion and breathing to heart rate and pupil dilation.
The ANS has two main branches:
PNS - Parasympathetic Nervous System (Rest and Digest): This branch is like your body's internal "off switch." It promotes relaxation, slows your heart rate, and aids in digestion and elimination.
SNS - Sympathetic Nervous System (Fight or Flight): This branch kicks in during stressful situations, preparing your body for action. It increases your heart rate, breathing, and blood sugar, all to help you deal with a perceived threat.
While these two branches seem opposed, they work together in a beautiful balance to keep your body functioning optimally. But sometimes, this balance can get thrown off, leading to a cascade of unpleasant symptoms.
This is where the vagus nerve, a key player in the parasympathetic nervous system, comes in...
The Vagus Nerve: Our Body's Master Communicator
The vagus nerve, also known as the wandering nerve or cranial nerve X, is the longest cranial nerve in the body. It acts as the main component of the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for promoting relaxation, digestion, and overall well-being. The vagus nerve extends from the brainstem down to the abdomen, innervating various organs, including the heart, lungs, stomach, intestines, and gut microbiome.
This mighty cranial nerve is one of 12 and happens to be the longest in your body, connecting your brain to your heart, lungs, gut, and more. It's a major player in your autonomic nervous system, influencing everything from digestion to heart rate and even your mood.
Without a vagal nerve, you wouldn’t have a gut instinct, be able to “open your heart”, metabolize your food, or take in sensory information.
But how can you tell if this seemingly vague vagus nerve is working? And can it be too sensitive?
Why is the Vagus Nerve Important?
A well-functioning vagus nerve is essential for optimal digestion and nutrient absorption. Here's how:
Enhanced Gut Motility: The vagus nerve stimulates the muscles in your digestive tract, keeping things moving smoothly. This is crucial for efficient digestion of high-fiber plant-based meals.
Improved Nutrient Absorption: A relaxed digestive system allows for better nutrient uptake from the foods you eat.
Reduced Digestive Discomfort: A stressed-out vagus nerve can contribute to digestive issues like bloating, constipation, and heartburn. By supporting vagus nerve function, you can minimize these discomforts and promote a healthier gut environment.
In the next post: Uncover the warning signs that your vagus nerve needs attention
This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before implementing any new practices or making changes to your diet or lifestyle. Please note: This is an inclusive space for all humans regardless of gender identity, sexuality, religion, and race. Terms such as “women” and “men” or “female” and “male” refer to the gender assigned at birth for the purpose of this post.
All sources cited in this series are noted in post 4: The Best Ways to Stimulate and Nourish Your Vagus Nerve
