As I shared earlier, I’m trained as a scientist, and one of the hottest areas in science is the study of our gut and its corresponding microbiome. Scientific research articles pertaining to the gut microbiome have skyrocketed, with approximately 4,000 articles published in 2017 alone.
What is rarely mentioned is the physical connection between our gut and our brain, which are in constant communication through the humble Vagus Nerve – one of the most underappreciated parts of our body.
So what exactly is the Vagus Nerve and what function does it perform?
The Vagus Nerve, the longest of the cranial nerves, originates at the base of the brain and travels to the abdomen. It functions as a type of “body alarm system,” constantly assessing the safety of our environment, and in response, regulates critical bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and digestion.
When our Vagus Nerve detects a threat, a series of immediate changes are initiated within the body as we prepare to “Fight, Flight or Freeze” in response to the perceived predator. After the threat has passed, the Vagus Nerve shifts back into a more calm state referred to as “Ventral Vagal”. Moving between Vagal States occurs automatically and is a way our body has evolved to ensure survival.
For many of us with autoimmune and chronic health issues, we live in a constant state of “Fight, Flight or Freeze” as opposed to moving into those Vagal States only when true danger is present.
While inadequate sleep, an inflammatory diet, or excessive stress can all impact our Vagal Nerve, things like unresolved grief or trauma, where the unconscious mind believes it is still in the midst of danger, can keep us in a heightened Vagal State, too.
Instead of being angry or frustrated at our body for our health issues, it may be helpful to reframe your symptoms as your own personal “check engine” light. Your body is trying to get your attention. It is looking out for your best interests and is focused on your long-term survival.
Listen to those signals and have gratitude that your internal alarm system is working.
If you'd like to learn more about why supporting the vagus nerve is an important part of supporting our overall health, I devote a whole section to it in my course, The Autoimmune Reset. Click here to get started.
Serving all of the Northeastern United States of America (USA) Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, and New Jersey.
