Have you heard of the vagus nerve? This remarkably long nerve runs from the brain stem to the colon, connecting with major organs like the heart, lungs, and gut along the way. Research shows the vagus nerve plays a critical role in the mind-body connection and overall health. When functioning properly, the vagus nerve helps balance key systems. However, when the vagus nerve is impaired, it can contribute to inflammation, anxiety, digestive issues and more.

The good news is you can take steps to stimulate your vagus nerve. As a dietitian, I often recommend vagus nerve stimulation techniques to clients dealing with a wide range of health issues. Supporting your vagus nerve function through lifestyle strategies can enhance the gut-brain axis, meaning the communication between your gastrointestinal tract and brain. Let's explore the vagus nerve further, including ways you can stimulate it to improve your health.

What is the vagus nerve?

The vagus nerve is the longest and most complex of the 12 cranial nerves. This remarkable nerve interfaces with the parasympathetic nervous system which controls involuntary body processes including digestion, heart rate, breathing, and more. About 80% of the nerve fibers in the vagus nerve carry information from the body up to the brain. The other 20% of fibers transport instructions from the brain to the body. Overall, the vagus nerve helps regulate key bodily processes unconsciously.

The vagus nerve also controls what is referred to as the "relaxation response." Interfacing with the parasympathetic nervous system, it prompts your body to relax by lowering blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. When the vagus nerve cannot do its job effectively, it impairs your body's ability to respond to stress. Boosting vagus nerve function can stimulate the relaxation response.

Why stimulate the vagus nerve?

There are many evidence-based reasons you may want to stimulate your vagus nerve, including:

• Lowers inflammation - The vagus nerve signals to your immune system. Impaired function is linked to inflammation which underlies chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis and heart disease.
• Promotes gut health - Much of the vagus nerve is connected to the gastrointestinal tract. Stimulating it can help digestion, nutrient absorption, and probiotic balance.
• Eases anxiety and depression - Vagus activation releases calming neurotransmitters and can improve mood disorders.
• Provides pain relief - Studies show vagus stimulation can alleviate migraines, fibromyalgia, and other pain.
• Improves focus - Stimulating the vagus nerve can increase levels of norepinephrine which enhances alertness and attention.
• Regulates blood glucose - The vagus nerve helps control insulin production and can stabilize blood sugar.

5 ways to stimulate your vagus nerve

The good news is you can take simple steps to activate your vagus nerve daily. Here are five ways I often recommend clients stimulate their vagus nerve:

1. Cold exposure - Splashing cold water on your face or taking a cold shower triggers the vagus nerve. Cold water immersion also stimulates it powerfully.
2. Deep breathing - Regular deep, diaphragmatic breathing maximizes vagus activation. Try 4-7-8 breathing - inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8.
3. Mindful meditation - Quieting your mind through meditation gives your vagus nerve a chance to activate the relaxation response. Start with 5 minutes a day.
4. Gargle or sing - Vocal vibrations trigger the vagus when you gargle, hum, chant, or sing a tune.
5. Omega-3s - Foods high in anti-inflammatory omega-3s like salmon, walnuts and avocado provide vagus nerve support.

PEMF therapy benefits for stimulating the vagus nerve

Another emerging technique for vagus nerve stimulation is PEMF therapy. PEMF stands for pulsed electromagnetic field therapy. It involves using a device that emits gentle electromagnetic waves that mimic the earth’s natural frequencies.

Research indicates PEMF therapy provides these benefits for the vagus nerve:

• Increases vagal tone – PEMF has been shown to increase vagal activity which helps the body shift into parasympathetic “rest and digest” mode.
• Reduces inflammation – By increasing vagus nerve stimulation, PEMF therapy can lower inflammation at the cellular level.
• Improves gut motility – PEMF waves enhance overall gut function including peristalsis which is controlled by the vagus nerve.
• Eases pain – Studies show PEMF alleviates nerve pain and can activate vagus nerve pathways that modulate pain signals.
• Enhances mood – Due to its vagus nerve stimulation, using PEMF may boost mood by increasing serotonin and calming the body.
• Stabilizes heart rate – Through connections with the vagus nerve, PEMF has been found to balance and stabilize heart rate variability.
• Promotes calmness – PEMF therapy provides soothing vagus activation to initiate relaxation response and lower stress.

The noninvasive nature and gentle effectiveness of PEMF therapy make it a promising option for supporting vagus nerve function. Ask me how adding PEMF to your routine could amplify your vagus nerve stimulation benefits. This innovative modality is definitely worth exploring!

Get in touch with Dietitian For All to learn more about PEMF therapy benefits!

The vagus nerve really is amazing when you think about it. This intricate nerve runs all the way from our brains to our colons, keeping so many essential bodily functions in check unconsciously. No wonder impaired vagus nerve function can create so many health issues.

Luckily, we can take charge of our health by utilizing simple, everyday techniques to activate and stimulate the vagus nerve. Start by trying out deep breathing, cold exposure, meditation, singing, or omega-3s. Pick two methods and commit to doing them daily. Even 5 minutes of cold showering and humming in the morning can get those vagus nerve fibers firing. I'm happy to work with you to personalize a vagus nerve stimulating plan using diet, lifestyle strategies, and targeted practices. Supporting your hardworking vagus nerve truly is one of the most powerful things you can do to enhance gut-brain communication and mind-body health from the inside out. Our bodies are incredible when all the nerves and systems work in harmony—get your vagus nerve on board with Dietitian For All!