Why are scientists so excited about the vagus nerve? – podcast

Serving as a two-way ‘electrical superhighway’, the vagus nerve – which is actually a pair of nerves – allows for communication between the brain and the heart, lungs and abdominal organs. And because of this, it has been shown to help control things such as the heart rate, breathing, digestion and even immune r esponses. Now, scientists and health influencers are asking whether stimulating the vagus nerve could transform physical and mental health.Science correspondent Linda Geddes tells Ian Sample about herrecent investigation into the hype and science surrounding the vagus nerve, and also whether her own experiment with an allegedly nerve-stimulating device is having any effectClips: TikTok, YouTubeContinue reading...

Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - August 31, 2023 Category: Science Authors: Presented by Ian Sample with Linda Geddes; produced by Madeleine Finlay and Joshan Chana with sound design by Tony Onuchukwu; the executive producers are Ellie Bury and Max Sanderson Tags: Neuroscience Mental health Medical research Source Type: news