A simple method to stimulate the vagus nerve can have a positive impact on reducing inflammation, enhancing mental health, and improving cognitive performance. While nutrition and exercise are commonly used tools for preventing chronic diseases, some healthcare professionals are now recognizing the benefits of vagus nerve stimulation.
Navaz Habib, a chiropractor specializing in functional medicine, emphasizes the significance of diet and physical activity in his approach to wellness. He has written books on the topic, including “Upgrade Your Vagus Nerve,” which delves into the research, techniques, and advantages of stimulating the vagus nerve, such as controlling inflammation, boosting immunity, and more.
The vagus nerve, the longest cranial nerve in the body, connects the brain to various parts of the body, influencing functions of the immune, cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, and endocrine systems. Vagus nerve stimulation has been studied as a treatment for a range of health conditions, from diabetes to depression, and even long COVID, a condition thought to be linked to nerve inflammation.
Various techniques can be used to stimulate the vagus nerve, such as breathing exercises, chanting, humming, and singing. These methods promote relaxation and stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the body’s rest and digest response. Electrical stimulation is another effective method, providing quicker results compared to self-stimulating techniques. Implantable devices for vagus nerve stimulation have been approved by the FDA for certain conditions, although they can be costly.
In conclusion, stimulating the vagus nerve can offer numerous health benefits, from reducing inflammation to improving overall well-being. Techniques such as deep breathing and vocalization can be done without the need for expensive devices, making it accessible to individuals looking to enhance their health and wellness. One study found that the benefit of this unit, especially for drug resistant epilepsy, can be equal to or even greater than the cost of the device. Additionally, this implanted device is approved to treat depression as well as other conditions with stimulation. Interest has grown for a more affordable, non-invasive stimulator, such as a wearable device with electrodes near the ear canal currently being evaluated in a clinical study for treating gastrointestinal issues.
Dr. Habib prefers a small handheld device called Truvaga, which costs between $300 and $500. This device was developed by Errico, a medical device maker with over 250 patents. Errico was inspired to create a nerve-stimulating device after witnessing the success of deep brain stimulation in treating Parkinson’s and essential tremor. Clinical research on his vagus nerve stimulator began in 2006, leading to the creation of Truvaga, a non-invasive device that is FDA-cleared to treat various headaches.
Errico also developed a military version called TAC-STIM, which uses vagus nerve stimulation to potentially enhance cognitive abilities. Research under the TNT program has shown promising outcomes, including improved language learning and retention. The device releases acetylcholine when stimulating the vagus nerve, which can improve focus and brain function.
Truvaga is considered safe and easy to use, with usage guidelines cautioning against use in certain medical conditions. Healthcare providers like Elizabeth Tringali have reported positive results using the device on their patients, including calming anxiety attacks. Tringali described the transformation in one of her patients as being like a new person. Vagus nerve stimulation through Truvaga can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, especially beneficial for patients who are stuck in sympathetic dominance due to chronic illnesses. Tringali shared that many of these patients have been sick for years, unable to escape the fight or flight response despite being on numerous medications and trying various treatments.
Patients can try the Truvaga device in Tringali’s office before deciding to purchase one for home use. Some individuals experience immediate results, while others may take some time to see changes. Tringali emphasized that consistent daily use of the device can lead to improved energy levels, changes in lab results, and better response to other treatments.
To use Truvaga, users place the device, about the size of a deck of cards, on the left side of their throat where they would feel for their pulse. The device includes two metal electrodes that target a specific area on the neck with the highest concentration of nerve fibers for optimal stimulation. A contact gel helps conduct the current from the device to the skin. Users can control the amplitude of the device, starting low and gradually increasing as they become accustomed to the sensation.
Even pets like dogs seem to enjoy the calming effects of Truvaga, with some dogs willingly exposing their necks for stimulation. Truvaga is available in different models, with the least expensive version offering a limited number of uses and the pricier models providing unlimited sessions but requiring an app for use.
Overall, Truvaga offers a non-invasive and potentially effective way to stimulate the vagus nerve and promote relaxation and balance in the autonomic nervous system.
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