How the Vegas Nerve Affects the Gut_ & Immunity

The Other Side of Medicine

Join Dr. Krystosik and his special guest, Dr. Michael Husmillo on The Other Side of Medicine podcast tonight at 8:00 p.m. as they explore the important role of the vagus nerve in health and disease. Learn about the gut and brain connection, and how to improve well-being by stimulating the vagus nerve with optimal nutrition, detoxification, brain exercises and much more. Discover The Other Side of Medicine. The vagus nerve, also known as the tenth cranial nerve, plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including those of the gut and immune system. Here's how it affects these systems: 1. Gut Function: The vagus nerve is a major player in the gut-brain axis, which is the bidirectional communication system between the gut and the brain. It regulates many aspects of gut function, including: • Digestion: The vagus nerve helps regulate the release of stomach acid and digestive enzymes, as well as the movement of food through the digestive tract. • Motility: It controls the contraction and relaxation of the muscles in the digestive tract, aiding in the movement of food through the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. • Satiation: The vagus nerve signals the brain when the stomach is full, helping to regulate appetite and prevent overeating. • Gut-Brain Communication: The vagus nerve transmits information about the state of the gut to the brain, influencing mood, stress responses, and overall well-being. 2. Immune System: The vagus nerve also plays a role in regulating the immune system, primarily through its connection to the spleen and other organs involved in immune function. Key points include: • Inflammation Regulation: The vagus nerve can help modulate inflammation by sending signals that dampen the immune response. This is known as the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. • Spleen Function: The vagus nerve communicates with the spleen, regulating the release of immune cells and cytokines, which are involved in the body's response to infection and inflammation. • Microbiota Regulation: Emerging research suggests that the vagus nerve may play a role in maintaining the balance of gut microbiota, which in turn affects immune function and overall health. 3. Stress Response: The vagus nerve is involved in the body's response to stress. It helps regulate the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can have downstream effects on both gut function and immune responses. 4. Autonomic Nervous System: The vagus nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" response. By activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the vagus nerve promotes relaxation and digestion, which can have positive effects on gut health and immune function. Overall, the vagus nerve is a key mediator of communication between the brain, gut, and immune system, helping to maintain homeostasis and overall health. Dysfunction or dysregulation of the vagus nerve can contribute to digestive disorders, immune dysfunction, and other health issues. Discover how to stimulate, nourish and protect the vegus nervous system with safe natural medicine.