The Vagus Nerve

Have you ever been stressed, depressed or really anxious about something and reach for food to “help” you feel better? Food can help trigger some dopamine (feel good hormone) and can help us feel better for only a moment, but it is actually counterintuitive to our guts and overall well-being.

When we are in a state of “Fight or Flight” our digestive system actually shuts down. So eating during these stressful moments causes stomach issues and inhibits our receptors telling us we are full, causing us to keep eating and eating.

Why? That’s because our Vagus Nerve is widely connected to our stomach, intestines, heart and more. The Vagus nerve communications with our brain and organs conducting a lot of the action that does and doesn’t occur.

Have you ever heard of “Rest and Digest”? It literally means that only when you are in a state of rest (in other words calm) are you able to digest and absorb your food.

The Vagus Nerve is the longest and most complex nerves in our bodies. It travels from the brain to organs throughout the body. The vagus nerve oversees our parasympathetic nervous system (when our bodies are in a state of rest and digest), and has a major influence on our digestion.

Parasympathetic vs Sympathetic State

When we are in a Sympathetic State (opposite of rest and digest) also referred to as "Fight or Flight" there is a reduction of intestinal activity and a reduction of blood flow interfering with digestion.

Causes of Fight or Flight State

• High levels of stress

• Anxiety

• Irritability

The best technique for activating Rest and Digest, better known as your Parasystematic system? …Deep Breathing. Breath work or Meditation is known for calming you down, slowing down your heart rate and increasing blood flow which then deactivates Fight or Flight mode.

So next time you are in a state of panic, know that reaching for food is only a temporary fix, if any, and your adding more fuel to the fire.