

The Health Upgrade Podcast
Navaz Habib
This podcast is for high-performing entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, and those who want to upgrade every aspect of their lives by experiencing UPGRADED energy, UPGRADED focus, and UPGRADED ability to show up, every day of their lives. Dr. Navaz Habib and JP Errico will bring you weekly shows including interviews with world-class experts in functional medicine, longevity, health, high performance, and functional movement. We aim to bring you game-changing tools to upgrade your performance, so you can eliminate what is holding you back, show up in your business, relationships, and family, and bring your gifts to the world.
Find out more at: www.healthupgradepodcast.com
Find out more at: www.healthupgradepodcast.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 24, 2024 • 28min
Vagus Nerve Activity in Long COVID
Welcome to another episode of the Health Upgrade podcast!Today, we dive into a fascinating study about long COVID and its effects on the autonomic nervous system. In this episode, we discuss a study that delves into the correlation between impaired vagal activity and long COVID symptoms. With a focus on markers such as heart rate variability, inflammation, and the procoagulative state, the study sheds light on the impact of long COVID on patients' health.We dissect the study's findings, highlighting the differences in clinical characteristics and medical history between long-COVID and no-COVID patients. We explore the significant role of vagal activity in determining the resilience to inflammatory activity and discuss the implications for improving vagal nerve function. With insightful commentary and in-depth analysis, we provide valuable insights into the importance of maintaining optimal vagus nerve functioning, especially in the context of viral infections like COVID-19.Tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role of vagal nerve function in combating long COVID symptoms. Learn how to upgrade and improve your vagus nerve function to boost your resilience and navigate through potential health challenges with greater ease. If you want to enhance your vagal tone to support your immune system and overall health, this episode provides valuable insights and practical tips to help you on your journey to better health.Rate and review before the next episode. If you want to know more about us and what we do, go to www.healthupgradepodcast.com.Contact info: Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: podcast@healthupgraded.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa

Jan 17, 2024 • 55min
Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Depression
Hello and welcome to another episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, where we dive deep into the complex world of depression, anxiety, the transformative possibilities unleashed through the stimulation of the vagus nerve.In this episode, we explore the fascinating role of microglial cells in the central nervous system and their impact on stress and inflammation. We highlight the influence of social connections on mental well-being, emphasizing the natural form of vagus nerve stimulation through social interaction. With insightful discussions on neurotransmitter breakdown, the production of metabolites, and the critical role of vagus nerve stimulation, we unveil the potential for groundbreaking treatment approaches that go beyond traditional medication.Tune in for practical tips and expert insights, and become part of the movement to spread awareness and understanding about mental health.Rate and review before the next episode. If you want to know more about us and what we do, go to www.healthupgradepodcast.com.Contact info:Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: podcast@healthupgraded.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa

May 31, 2023 • 52min
Vagus Nerve Effects on Allergies, Asthma and Eczema
Hello and welcome to the Health Upgrade Podcast!In this episode, we will cover the link between allergies, asthma, and eczema. And the mechanism by which each of these conditions occurs. All three conditions cause inflammation, which happens when there is an autoimmune like response to different factors such as stress, food, physiological pain and etc. These factors can trigger a flare up which can cause hives, hypersensitivity, full-blown allergy asthma and likely bronchospasm. When we get into this state, we have an autonomic response towards the sympathetic nervous system, where in fight or flight is activated. To modulate this response, we need to alter our that autonomic nervous system by stimulating and activating our vagus nerve, this will lower the initial stress reaction, push us from that sympathetic to the parasympathetic state. And in doing so, we increase the size of that threshold that is required for an allergen to create an anaphylactic or allergic or asthmatic response.If you want to learn more on how to regulate your emergency response then listen to this episode! Contact info: Navaz HabibEmail: podcast@healthupgraded.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aaWebsite: www.jperrico.com

May 19, 2023 • 1h 5min
Reversing Chronic Disease featuring dr. Terry Wahls
Welcome back to the podcast! In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of mitochondrial health and the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. Dr. Terry Wahls is an athlete who suffered from autoimmune diseases due to overtraining and inadequate recovery time. She discovered the power of using mitochondria resuscitation and hormetic stress supplements for improving her mitochondrial function. Despite facing multiple sclerosis, she found a way to enhance their parasympathetic tone through exercise, proper sleep, meditation, and yoga. This positive social environment helped to regulate her immune system and balance her autonomic nervous system.The podcast explores the importance of social interaction and human connection and the potential impact of smartphone stress and isolation on our body's biochemistry. Our guest recommends maximizing our nutrient intake through a simple diet protocol that includes nine cups of vegetables, plant pigments, and avoids processed flour-based products, dairy, and excessive fat.Contact info: Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP Errico LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa Website: www.jperrico.comDr. Terry Wahls Website: https://terrywahls.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drterrywahls/

May 10, 2023 • 57min
Vagus Nerve Effects on Epigenetics
Hello, everybody! Welcome back to the Health Upgrade Podcast.In this episode, we will delve into the fascinating topic of the vagus nerve's involvement in the production of our genetic transcription and transcription factors, and how vagus nerve stimulation can affect epigenetics. Our DNA is composed of nucleotides, which contain codes that serve as instructions for protein synthesis. However, epigenetic factors such as behavior and environment can impact the expression of genes and proteins. Stress and inflammation caused by disorders can cause changes in DNA methylation, histone modification, and the presence of non-coding RNAs, resulting in negative effects on our health and longevity. Fortunately, by stimulating the vagus nerve, we can activate the parasympathetic nervous system and counteract the harmful effects of these epigenetic factors. This can lead to a reduction in aging, improved cognitive function, increased metabolic efficiency, and decreased inflammation. Vagus nerve stimulation also aids in developing emotional, mental, and physical resilience, enabling us to handle stressors and thrive in our current world.Contact info:Navaz HabibEmail: podcast@healthupgraded.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP ErricoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aaWebsite: www.jperrico.com

May 3, 2023 • 1h 23min
The Functional Medicine Approach to Upgrade Vagus Nerve
Welcome to this special episode of The Health Upgrade Podcast!This episode is actually an interview of our host Dr. Navaz Habib with Dr. Michael Kaye, a functional medicine practitioner at The Center for Functional Health in Sellersville PA.In this episode, Dr. Kaye asks Dr. Habib all about the Vagus Nerve, how it is related to chronic inflammatory health conditions, and its connections to the immune system. They also get into the emerging science of electrical Vagus Nerve Stimulation as a game-changer in the control of inflammation and the support of patients suffering from various chronic health conditions.Contact info:Navaz HabibEmail: podcast@healthupgraded.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aaWebsite: www.jperrico.com

Apr 26, 2023 • 50min
Nutrition to Upgrade Vagus Nerve Function featuring Emma Ford
Hello, everybody! Welcome back to the Health Upgrade Podcast.I am very excited about today’s show because we will have one of the members of our team, Emma Ford. She is a Certified Clinical & Holistic Nutritionist (CNP); founder of Gut Rooted—a virtual nutritional counseling practice focused on gut health, digestive disorders & preventative health. She specializes in gut health, digestive disorders & the gut-brain connection. Her goal is to empower individuals to restore their gut so they can reclaim their mind, body & state of well-being. In today’s episode we will dig into the importance of a healthy gut and proper diet in supporting our overall health especially the vagus nerve function. Our digestive tract is so heavily rooted in vagus nerve innervation so when we smell food, when we tastefood, we have this initial reaction within our brain that signals the vagus nerve, that food is going down to the stomach then the stomach acid is produced. And if the vagus nerve is not functioning well because of stress, then we're not going to get those signals down to the digestive organs effectively causing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth or constipation and other digestive tract disorders. We will also be talking about the meals, supplements, and tools that our bodies require to assist and optimizing your diet and vagus nerve function.Contact info:Navaz HabibEmail:podcast@healthupgraded.comFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn:https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aaWebsite: www.jperrico.com Emma FordWebsite:https://www.gutrooted.com/

Apr 19, 2023 • 1h 3min
Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Repair featuring Sterling Cooley
Welcome to another episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast.In today’s episode, we had an awesome conversation with the well-known “Vagus Nerve” guy, Sterling Cooley. Sterling Cooley is the CEO & Founder at Vagus Nerve Stimulation & Repair Program. Where he currently works on activating the Parasympathetic Central Vagal Nervous system using direct to consumer Vagus Nerve stimulation technology. Sterling is also a consultant for leaders and managers of fast growing, and innovative companies across many industries. He has personally overseen clinical neuroscience studies in the treatment of many diverse disorders of the human brain.In today’s episode, Sterling will share his story on how he and his team found that pulsed ultrasound when used in the vagus nerve is a powerful and transformative therapy for individuals all around the world. We will also discuss how sleep and dreams assess whether the vagus nerve stimulation is working. Sleep is very much a parasympathetic state and when you are stimulated it induces you in this state. So, the healthier your vagus nerve is, the more it will give you the benefit of deeper sleep and vivid dreams. Which enhances your ability to wake up with so much more alertness and so much more cognitive functioning optimized due to being in the parasympathetic state.Contact info:Navaz HabibEmail: podcast@healthupgraded.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aawebsite: www.jperrico.comSterling Cooley Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sterlingcooleypersonalFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thevagusnerve/

Apr 14, 2023 • 1h 3min
Deep Dive into Heart Rate Variability with Greg Elliott
Hello and welcome to the Health Upgrade Podcast!I am honored to have this wonderful conversation with the master of HRV - heart rate variability, Greg Elliot. Greg is an exercise physiologist, kinesiologist and osteopathic practitioner who has worked with various hospitals, universities, clinics, fitness facilities and sports teams in Canada, the USA and around the world. He completed his Master of Science in Exercise Science at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania and is passionate about teaching and learning about latest improvements in the field of exercise science, active rehab and manual therapy.In today’s episode we will have a very significant discussion on heart rate variability. The HRV is a measurement tool that we use to check how our vagus nerve and other autonomic nerves are functioning. We will talk about the multiple ways of measuring heart rate variability and how we can contextualize and utilize the HRV data to positively impact our overall health specially for people that have various chronic conditions and chronic diseases. We will also touch into incorporating vagus nerve stimulation on heart rate variability. When the vagus nerve is stimulated there is an increase of parasympathetic, reducing inflammation through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway which then increases the complexity of HRV.Contact info:Navaz HabibEmail: podcast@healthupgraded.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aawebsite: www.jperrico.com Greg Elliothttps://elitehrv.com/academy/foundations-of-hrv

Apr 5, 2023 • 46min
Vagus Nerve Effects on Bone Health and Osteoporosis
Hi everyone! Welcome to another episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast.Today, our focus will be centered on bone health, where we will delve deep into the intricate mechanisms of bone health and explore the challenges that lead to bone density loss or bone mineral loss. Our bones consist of three different types of cells - osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes, which work in perfect harmony to maintain bone homeostasis. Moreover, the involvement of the nervous system and autonomic nervous system also plays a crucial role in bone health, regulating the structure and bone function.Osteoporosis is one of the most prevalent conditions that arise when the overall health of our bones is less than optimal. This condition is characterized by a decrease in estrogen levels, leading to a higher risk of bone mineral loss. The presence of sympathetic activation on the autonomic nervous system and an increase in inflammation further exacerbate this condition, increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues, heart attacks, and atherosclerosis.In this episode, we will also touch upon the significance of nutrient deficiencies such as calcium and magnesium in improving bone density. So, if you are interested in upgrading your overall bone health, join us now and listen to this exciting episode!Contact infoNavaz HabibEmail: podcast@healthupgraded.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aawebsite: www.jperrico.com