Episode #238: Upgrade Your Vagus Nerve: 5 Strategies for Enhancing Resilience and Vitality

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to bounce back from stress more easily than others? The answer may lie in the strength of their vagus nerve.   In today’s episode of the Longevity Podcast, I chat with Dr. Navaz Habib about the importance of the vagus nerve and its impact on heart rate variability (HRV). He explains that the vagus nerve is a unique nerve that connects the brain to all organs in the thorax and abdomen, allowing for communication and signaling. Vagal tone, which refers to the strength of the signals sent through the vagus nerve, is crucial for optimal health.    Dr. Habib identifies four types of stressors that can affect vagal tone: emotional, physical, biochemical, and psychological. He emphasizes the importance of proper breathing techniques, such as slow, diaphragmatic breathing, to improve vagal tone. We also discuss the role of nitric oxide in supporting vagus nerve function and how to supplement it for overall health.    Dr. Navaz Habib, is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Practitioner who empowers his clients to dig deeper and find the answers to what is holding back their health, affecting their energy and productivity. He is also the host of The Health Upgrade Podcast and speaks on various topics related to Vagus Nerve and its impact on optimal health.   Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible: Fatty15: Visit http://fatty15.com/NAT  and use promo code NAT to save. Mitopure: Use code NAT10 for 10% your order at https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop/nutrition  Berkeley Life: Consumers may register and place an order using my code NIDDBL for 10% off at berkeleylife.com    Find more from Dr. Navaz Habib: Website: https://drnavazhabib.kartra.com/page/DrHabibHome  Instagram: @drnavazhabib Book: Upgrade Your Vagas Nerve Podcast: The Health Upgrade Podcast   Find more from Nathalie: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmholC48MqRC50UffIZOMOQ  Join Nat’s Membership Community: https://www.natniddam.com/bsp-community  Sign up for Nats Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/i7d5m0  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathalieniddam/  Website: www.NatNiddam.com    Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/biohackingsuperhumanperformance  What We Discuss:  00:00 Introduction and Importance of the Vagus Nerve 15:21 Understanding Vagal Tone and Its Importance 28:42 Heart Rate Variability and Its Significance 31:27 Using HRV as a Future-Focused Tool 36:02 The Connection Between Nitric Oxide and the Vagus Nerve 45:45 Breathwork and Dietary Support for Vagal Tone 51:07 Electrical Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Vagal Function   Key Takeaways: The vagus nerve is a unique nerve that connects the brain to all organs in the thorax and abdomen, allowing for communication and signaling. To improve vagal tone and support the vagus nerve, practice breathwork techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing and longer exhales. Consider nitric oxide supplementation and maintain electrolyte balance to enhance vagal tone.