The Vagus Nerve: Your Digestion Ally
The vagus nerve is one of the longest nerves in the body and is crucial in regulating various bodily functions, including digestion. It connects the brain to the digestive system, and its stimulation or activation can affect the digestive processes in several ways.
The vagus nerve innervates the organs involved in digestion, including the stomach, pancreas, and intestines. When it is activated, it triggers the release of digestive enzymes and juices in the stomach, promoting digestion and nutrient absorption.
One of the primary functions of the vagus nerve is to help regulate the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, controlling the speed at which foods move through the digestive system. It does this by stimulating the muscles in the stomach and intestines to contract and drive the food through the digestive tract.
The vagus nerve also plays a role in regulating gut-brain communication. It relays information about the state of the digestive system to the brain, which can influence feelings of hunger, fullness, and satisfaction after eating.
When the vagus nerve is not functioning correctly, it can lead to various digestive issues, such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), acid reflux, SIBO, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Acupuncture can help stimulate the vagus nerve and improve digestive function in several ways. One of the principal ways acupuncture can be so helpful is by regulating the nervous system. The vagus nerve is an autonomic system that triggers responses to what’s happening around us.
By balancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the nervous system, acupuncture can promote relaxation and reduce stress, improving digestive function. Often I hear the stomach gurgling before I leave the room with my patients, signaling the beginning of vagus nerve activation and relaxation.
Acupuncture increases blood flow to the digestive organs, improving their function and stimulating the release of digestive enzymes and juices. The pancreas, for example, is responsible for producing and secreting digestive enzymes in the small intestine in response to a meal, helping to break down macronutrients.
Several herbs have been found to positively affect the vagus nerve. One herb in particular, Jujube is a fruit commonly used in Chinese medicine. A study published in the journal of Nutrients found that jujube extract can improve the function of the vagus nerve by increasing the expression of acetylcholine and nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brainstem. Jujube and other beneficial herbs can be found in the CALM formula.
Several exercises and techniques can help stimulate the vagus nerve, improving digestive function. But remember, these are just tools to help support your vagus nerve.
Several exercises and techniques can help stimulate the vagus nerve, improving digestive function. But remember, these are just tools to help support your vagus nerve. The goal is to center your nervous system by living in a safe, happy, and healthy environment. Here are my top three.
Laughter and social interaction. Isn't it interesting that when you're with a group of people enjoying stories, sharing meals, and laughing together, that all feels right in the world? This is your nervous system regulating itself. Connecting with others is a common trait among those over 100 years old!
Singing, chanting, or humming can help stimulate the vagus nerve, especially in the muscles in the back of the throat that connects to the nerve. You can sing along to your favorite song, chant an OM sound, or simply hum a tune. Practice the Six Healing Sounds, with each sound corresponding to the healing of a corresponding organ. And don't be shy about it: Use a strong voice as if singing from a mountaintop.
Deep abdominal breathing can stimulate the vagus nerve and promote relaxation, improving digestion. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold your breath for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Think of deep inhalation in the abdomen as an internal massage for your organs. Your intestines, stomach, and liver all benefit. Try our CALM Meditation by Dr. Mao, as it combines deep breathing with visualization.