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.

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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

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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.