The Truth About Stimulating the Vagus Nerve

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Due to increased stress, about 49% of people say that it negatively impacts their behavior. 20% experience unexpected mood swings, 21% have tension in their bodies, and 17% yell at a loved one.

If you’re stressed out, you might wonder what you can do for relief. You might have heard about stimulating the vagus nerve but are curious what that is exactly.

You’re in luck! Read this guide on the truth about stimulating the vagus nerve today.

The Benefits of Stimulating the Vagus Nerve

Vagus nerve stimulation requires the use of a device to send electrical impulses through the nerve. You can read about a TVNS device here. A vagus nerve stimulator is FDA-approved to treat depression and epilepsy.

The nerve runs on each side of your body from your brainstem through your abdomen and chest. A wire goes under your skin to connect the device to the left vagus nerve. Some countries allow stimulation devices that don’t require surgical implantation.

The vagus nerve helps you remain calm in stressful situations. If you have depression, you could be in constant fight or flight mode.

Some will use breathwork to stimulate the vagus nerve. It helps you regulate your stress response and could relieve anxiety.

The vagus nerve has a role in:

  • Taste
  • Speech
  • Breathing
  • Mood
  • Urine output
  • Digestion
  • Saliva and mucus production

How to Stimulate the Vagus Nerve

Besides vagus nerve stimulation therapy, there’s breathwork. This is where you take deep breaths, use yoga, and meditation.

Singing and humming are other methods to stimulate the vagus nerve. Gargling helps as well. Others claim that adding Omega 3 and probiotics to your diet could help.

Eat fiber-rich foods since it’ll help you feel full quicker. Exercise and foot massages could also help.

Use positive self-talk to encourage your confidence. Listen to ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) to relax.

It calms your nervous system since it works from your scalp to your spine. This could include listening to scratching, whispering, tapping, etc.

There are plenty of free videos on Youtube to check out. Even laughing could help stimulate the vagus nerve. Practice deep breaths from the belly and imagine your belly expanding.

Could the Stimulation of the Vagus Nerve Help?

While it’s cleared for depression and epilepsy, it’s not a cure-all. More research is needed about its effects on reducing your chances of stroke, heart disease, and other gastrointestinal conditions. While the vagus nerve stimulation reduces inflammation and these conditions are inflammatory, speak with your doctor.

Understanding How Stimulating the Vagus Nerve Works

After exploring this guide on how stimulating the vagus nerve works, you should have a better understanding of whether or not it’s right for you. Take your time speaking with your doctor to see if vagus nerve stimulation could help.

Would you like to read more informative and educational lifestyle content? We can help. Be sure to check out our other articles on our site today!


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Alice Christina, a seasoned health writer, combines her passion for wellness with a strong foundation in evidence-based research. She crafts insightful content that empowers readers to make informed health decisions. Alice's expertise shines through her concise and reliable health articles.