In scientific literature and in mainstream discussion there’s been a lot of focus on how to support the digestive system, now referred to as the “second brain”. There’s also quite a bit of research identifying the need to address neuro- inflammation and brain immunity. Overall, we understand that there is a gut-brain connection and that it’s a two way street: communication dynamically moving from brain to gut and gut to brain. This connection is done via the vagus nerve. As important as it is to support the digestive system and the brain, it’s equally important to support the vagus nerve.
As a major nerve of the “rest & digest” (parasympathetic) the vagus nerve slows the heart rate and stimulates bowel activity. The vagus nerve is also referred to as the wandering nerve because it zigzags from brain down through the esophagus, heart, intestines and can affect multiple organs in the body. It plays a key role in the mind-body connection ultimately influencing how the digestive system and the brain performs.
So what can impair the vagus nerve? GI distress, metals (such as mercury), stress, fatigue and anxiety can falter the vagus nerve. Any or all of these constitutes a stress that forces the “fight-flight” (sympathetic) system to take over the “rest and digest” system, resulting in poor vagus nerve performance and failed communication between the gut and the brain.
In science, vagus nerve stimulation (as an apparatus) has been identified. Over 1,200 articles of scientific research substantiates the improvements in refractory epilepsy with vagus nerve stimulation: ”
Dietary therapy is not the best option for refractory nonsurgical epilepsy.
Vagus nerve stimulation for refractory epilepsy: experience from Saudi Arabia.
Vagus nerve stimulation for refractory epilepsy: a Belgian multicenter study to name a few.
In many of these studies, a reduction in seizures occurs. Reportedly, in rare cases, complete cessation of seizures occur.
Please keep in mind that vagus nerve stimulation is typically used “exclusively” as an approach to reduce seizures. Exclusivity is an effective means to “measure” success but it fails entirely as a functional approach. To support the whole person all systems must be supported simultaneously on an as needed basis. If GI and metals are a source of distress then those areas need to be addressed as does the vagus nerve and the brain (since it’s on the receiving/giving end). Just supporting the GI tract, or just the brain or just the vagus nerve alone will not support the series of systems that are dependent on it. Brain inflammation and oxidative stress must be supported, as does the digestive system and the function of the vagus nerve. I’m confident that these studies would reveal a greater resolve if tested on control groups with supports on multiple levels (my personal opinion :))
The vagus nerve can become under performing similar to an arm that’s been in a cast for six weeks. It’s essential to improve the performance of the vagus nerve. How to do so? Dr. Kharrazian, a pioneer neuroscientist declares that these three simple exercises performed multiple times per day, for several weeks, can improve the performance of the vagus nerve.
- Gargling: drink several glasses of water each day. Each sip should involve gargling which stimulates the vagus nerve by forcing it to contract and will also stimulate the gastrointenstinal tract.
- Sing loudly: (one of my favorites). Again singing loudly works the muscles in the back of the throat that stimulates the vagus nerve.
- Gag: purchase tongue compressors, careful not to create choking. Place compressor toward the back of the tongue to create a gag reflex.
Dr. Kharrazian refers to gag reflexes as doing push-ups for the vagus while gargling and singing loudly are like doing sprints. These exercises are simple, can be done at home and have been demonstrated to strengthen the vagal tone and ultimately improve the gut-brain axis.
Be well,
Lynn
