What is the “gut-brain link”? Am I a hocus-pocus when I tell my patients that they can't heal their gut unless they resolve the traumas and resentments in their lives? Is there a scientific explanation for this? It is. The vagus nerve. It's also important to note that the vagus does not stay there.
Who's in charge, the brain or gut?
It is because the gut is a tube that has openings at either end. The gut begins at the mouth, and ends at anus. In medical terms, the interior of the gut is outside the body. You can ingest something and then eliminate it at the other end without it being inside of your body.
The gut is the way that outside elements enter your body. Leaky gut is when the barrier between the intestine and the body breaks down. Toxins can enter the body.
Over the past 50 years, two things have changed that affect our health. Chronic diseases are on the rise and we have introduced more toxins to our environment. Gleichzeitig, our guts are more leaky, which allows toxins to enter, creating inflammation. This can manifest as Hashimoto’s disease, Lupus, Eczema and other chronic diseases.
The nervous system is one of the factors which influences the integrity of the gut lining. The gut is surprisingly equipped with its own nervous system. The “enteric nerve system” (ENS), which surrounds the entire tube of the gut, is called this. The ENS contains 100 to 500 millions neurons, the most nerve cells found in the human body. The ENS's primary function is to maintain intestinal barrier. Why would traumas and resentments that are not treated affect the nervous system? All of it comes down to the vagus nerve.
The vagus is a highway that runs from your brain down to your gut and back. The vagus nerve carries signals both ways. The vagus nervous system is constantly active, and regulates two responses: sympathic, and parassimpathetic. Parasympathetic means rest and digest, while sympathetic is the fight-or-flight reaction. The autonomic system is a vital part of the human evolution. It's what allows us to survive. The autonomic nervous systems protects us when we are in a life or death situation by directing the majority of our energy to the muscles and brain.
If we were hiking and ran into a bear, the best way to survive is to have enough energy to plan an escape (blood flowing to the brain), or to run away (blood flowing to the muscles) if necessary. We would not be able to survive if we spent energy digesting breakfast burritos while trying escape. We could spend energy digesting our breakfast burrito if we were able to escape and were sitting around the campfire.
The autonomic nervous is amazing but it's not ready for the digital age. We live our lives surrounded by notifications, which direct our attention to constant emails, texts, breaking news, Instagram updates, etc. We feel like we are constantly running away from a grizzly.
Many of us check our phones as soon as we get up. Our autonomic nervous systems registers the fact that we are in a survival situation as we read breaking news. The sympathetic nervous system responds by shutting down digestion, suppressing gut immune function and slowing down motility, (muscle contractions which move the contents in the GI tract) as well as suppressing good gut bacteria. All of these responses can lead to a leaky intestine.
Mental, emotional, and spiritual health are important for gut health. It sounds easy, right? Not necessarily. I am in recovery and know how denial can be.
Follow these steps to improve gut health by healing the body, mind and spirit connection:
- Find out what causes stress. Sit quietly for 20 minutes, and observe what thoughts arise. Some people are uncomfortable with the thoughts that come to mind, or are impatient and cannot sit for 20 minutes. My patients who refuse to acknowledge that they have a problem are given my version of the stress test – adrenal gland testing to measure cortisol levels (your stress hormone). It may be worth it for some to speak to a therapist about the underlying causes of stress. They can also support you in your healing journey.
- Gratitude is a powerful emotion. Focus on the aspects of your daily life that you are grateful for. You could appreciate the simple things in life, such as a sunny morning, the warmth and safety of your home or the presence of loved ones or pets.
- Regular exercise is important. Exercise is important for maintaining a healthy nervous system. Consider your exercises as increasing “vagal tonus.”
- Include a daily Mindfulness exercise. Mindfulness would be my first choice for patients. It has been proven that engaging in present moment awareness 10-20 minutes per day can reduce blood pressure and anxiety, improve sleep, mood, and immunity. Personally, I like guided mediations. Try a variety of practices to find out which one works best for you.
- Heart rate variability monitors can be used to identify nervous system imbalances. The Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is the time between each heartbeat. If you have low variations, your gut may not be working correctly and you are in sympathetic nervous system. If you have a high variation, your parasympathetic nervous system is active and your gut will be working. The monitor will teach you to be more aware and how to create variations. The key to staying in the moment is to learn how you can breathe.
This is a message that says, “What happens to our emotional well-being through our vagus nervous translates into our gut.” Get out of your head to ensure that the vagus transmits positive and healthy messages.
The article What Happens in Vagus doesn't stay in Vagus – Exploring the Brain and Gut Connection first appeared on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Is it Evidence-based
Although the evidence base for alternative and complementary medicine is still in flux, there are many reasons people choose them. You might have tried traditional treatments and found them ineffective. Or you may be looking for an alternative treatment because it has more benefits than conventional care. Alternately, they may look into complementary and alternative medicine as part of a holistic approach for health. It is important for patients to verify that any alternative or complementary medicines they are using have been supported by scientific research. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice if in doubt about the effectiveness of a particular treatment. It may save you money and time over the long term.
Is holistic medicine legitimate?
Yes, and no. Yes. There are many medications that have been proven to be effective against various conditions. No, because they don't cure everything. It all depends on your definition of “holistic.” It all depends on your definition of “holistic.” If you mean taking into consideration all aspects of a person's health, then it is true. But if you only mean using natural remedies instead of chemical ones, then it is not.
Some claim holistic medicine was around since ancient times. However, this is simply false. Although some healers in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome used natural remedies, they did so without scientific knowledge.
Medical practitioners started to study anatomy and physiological science in the Middle Ages. This led to the development and practice of surgery, obstetrics and pharmacology. By the 19th century, most Western countries had developed public hospitals where trained doctors could provide medical care.
Today, conventional medicine is the dominant form of healthcare. But, many people still prefer complementary and alternative medicine. Many find that it works better for them than pharmaceutical drugs.
People may feel more relaxed after having massage therapy than they do when taking tranquilizers. Others prefer healthy eating to prescription medication. Others still believe that regular exercise improves their bodies' performance.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative therapies are popular because they can be cheaper and more convenient than traditional treatment. There have been cases in which patients have died from side effects, such as allergic reactions, after receiving these treatments. There are also alternatives that may be more effective.
If you don't have enough knowledge about alternative medicines, they can pose a danger. Vitamin supplements aren’t controlled as pharmaceuticals so it is easy to get too high on vitamins. Other remedies, however, can be toxic.
What are some examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that does not fit the criteria of mainstream medicine. These include traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture and herbal medicines, nutritional therapy, energy healing techniques, such as Reiki, and acupuncture.
Alternative medicine can also be defined as a practice that is not supported by scientific evidence, but which has been proven effective in clinical practice. You can use meditation, hypnosis and yoga to achieve this.
What is the difference between alternative medicine, complementary medicine and other medicine?
Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. These include homeopathy, acupuncture, aromatherapy and reflexology as well as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda and naturopathy. Complementary medicines refer to those therapies which complement conventional treatment; they may be used alongside conventional medicine. These include dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics, and other natural substances.
Both forms of medicine may be used. However, most conventional doctors will not recommend them due either to insufficient evidence nor safety concerns.
There isn't consensus among health-care providers on the best way to incorporate CAM into patient treatment.
Many CAM practices are based upon theories that have been around for thousands of years. Clinical trials conducted over the past two decades have shown that some of these treatments might be effective.
A variety of studies have suggested that acupuncture might relieve pain. Preliminary data also show that acupuncture may help to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Some studies have shown that acupuncture may be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome (FBS), fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple Sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches as well as anxiety and depression.
Some CAM treatments may also have therapeutic potential for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes and asthma, heart disease, heart disease, hypertension or Alzheimer's disease.
Experts agree that CAM can help with many ailments, even though we still have a lot to learn about its effectiveness.
People are turning to CAM practitioners more often for relief from common diseases.
Despite growing popularity, many remain confused about the definition of “alternative” or complementary medicine.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING FOR TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE–PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal – Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
cam.cancer.gov
How To
What can a holistic doctor do differently than a traditional doctor?
A holistic doctor can provide a greater range of services than a conventional doctor. This includes a nutritionist, massage therapy, naturopath and homeopath.
Holistic doctors treat patients holistically. This means they take a holistic approach to treating their health concerns. This helps them to identify the root cause of any health issues and help with long-term wellness. Holistic doctors use natural remedies such as herbs and essential oils alongside conventional medicine to help treat illness. They offer nutritional and dietary advice to help you live a healthy lifestyle.
A holistic doctor can also offer therapies like reflexology (reiki), shiatsu (yoga), hypnotherapy, craniosacral and other therapies.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: What Happens in Vagus Doesn’t Stay in Vagus — Exploring the Brain-Gut Connection
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/gut-health/what-happens-in-vagus-doesnt-stay-in-vagus-exploring-the-brain-gut-connection/
Published Date: Fri, 14 Jul 2023 20:34:11 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Is it Evidence-based
Although the evidence base for alternative and complementary medicine is still in flux, there are many reasons people choose them. You might have tried traditional treatments and found them ineffective. Or you may be looking for an alternative treatment because it has more benefits than conventional care. Alternately, they may look into complementary and alternative medicine as part of a holistic approach for health. It is important for patients to verify that any alternative or complementary medicines they are using have been supported by scientific research. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice if in doubt about the effectiveness of a particular treatment. It may save you money and time over the long term.
Is holistic medicine legitimate?
Yes, and no. Yes. There are many medications that have been proven to be effective against various conditions. No, because they don't cure everything. It all depends on your definition of “holistic.” It all depends on your definition of “holistic.” If you mean taking into consideration all aspects of a person's health, then it is true. But if you only mean using natural remedies instead of chemical ones, then it is not.
Some claim holistic medicine was around since ancient times. However, this is simply false. Although some healers in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome used natural remedies, they did so without scientific knowledge.
Medical practitioners started to study anatomy and physiological science in the Middle Ages. This led to the development and practice of surgery, obstetrics and pharmacology. By the 19th century, most Western countries had developed public hospitals where trained doctors could provide medical care.
Today, conventional medicine is the dominant form of healthcare. But, many people still prefer complementary and alternative medicine. Many find that it works better for them than pharmaceutical drugs.
People may feel more relaxed after having massage therapy than they do when taking tranquilizers. Others prefer healthy eating to prescription medication. Others still believe that regular exercise improves their bodies' performance.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative therapies are popular because they can be cheaper and more convenient than traditional treatment. There have been cases in which patients have died from side effects, such as allergic reactions, after receiving these treatments. There are also alternatives that may be more effective.
If you don't have enough knowledge about alternative medicines, they can pose a danger. Vitamin supplements aren’t controlled as pharmaceuticals so it is easy to get too high on vitamins. Other remedies, however, can be toxic.
What are some examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that does not fit the criteria of mainstream medicine. These include traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture and herbal medicines, nutritional therapy, energy healing techniques, such as Reiki, and acupuncture.
Alternative medicine can also be defined as a practice that is not supported by scientific evidence, but which has been proven effective in clinical practice. You can use meditation, hypnosis and yoga to achieve this.
What is the difference between alternative medicine, complementary medicine and other medicine?
Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. These include homeopathy, acupuncture, aromatherapy and reflexology as well as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda and naturopathy. Complementary medicines refer to those therapies which complement conventional treatment; they may be used alongside conventional medicine. These include dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics, and other natural substances.
Both forms of medicine may be used. However, most conventional doctors will not recommend them due either to insufficient evidence nor safety concerns.
There isn't consensus among health-care providers on the best way to incorporate CAM into patient treatment.
Many CAM practices are based upon theories that have been around for thousands of years. Clinical trials conducted over the past two decades have shown that some of these treatments might be effective.
A variety of studies have suggested that acupuncture might relieve pain. Preliminary data also show that acupuncture may help to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Some studies have shown that acupuncture may be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome (FBS), fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple Sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches as well as anxiety and depression.
Some CAM treatments may also have therapeutic potential for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes and asthma, heart disease, heart disease, hypertension or Alzheimer's disease.
Experts agree that CAM can help with many ailments, even though we still have a lot to learn about its effectiveness.
People are turning to CAM practitioners more often for relief from common diseases.
Despite growing popularity, many remain confused about the definition of “alternative” or complementary medicine.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING FOR TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE–PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal – Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
cam.cancer.gov
How To
What can a holistic doctor do differently than a traditional doctor?
A holistic doctor can provide a greater range of services than a conventional doctor. This includes a nutritionist, massage therapy, naturopath and homeopath.
Holistic doctors treat patients holistically. This means they take a holistic approach to treating their health concerns. This helps them to identify the root cause of any health issues and help with long-term wellness. Holistic doctors use natural remedies such as herbs and essential oils alongside conventional medicine to help treat illness. They offer nutritional and dietary advice to help you live a healthy lifestyle.
A holistic doctor can also offer therapies like reflexology (reiki), shiatsu (yoga), hypnotherapy, craniosacral and other therapies.
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