 Ronit Mor, NDDid you know that your stamina, gut health, blood sugar levels, heart rate variability, inflammation, emotional well-being, and even your ability to create lasting positive social connections, are all directly influenced by your vagus nerve?
The Vagus Nerve The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in the body. It is either one of two cranial nerves which extend from the brain stem all the way to the intestines. It connects the brain to many important organs including the heart, lungs, stomach, intestines, liver, and gallbladder. It’s involved in controlling the immune, cardiovascular, respiratory, and endocrine systems.  Russell Skinner, MDWith our world in the midst of a pandemic and our lives at an unprecedented halt, it’s no secret that many of us are experiencing stress like never before. Every day we are faced with new health issues and circumstances that many of us have never had to navigate before. While anxiety induced by these changes is normal, it’s important to remember that too much of it can have a negative impact on your immune system putting you at a greater risk for health issues.
The Impact of Stress on the Immune System Stressed out? Lonely or depressed? Don't be surprised if you come down with “something”. While we don’t know all of the implications of high stress on the body, we do have an understanding of some of them. Psychology Today states that “the brain and the immune system are in constant communication,” and that “this delicate balance...can be disrupted by any kind of physical and emotional stress.” Some believe that as many as 90% of diseases and illnesses, such as heart disease and cancer, have stress as a causative factor.  Ronit Mor, NDDid you know that 80% of us struggle with stress on a regular basis?
Stress is your body’s reaction to a physical, mental or emotional strain or tension. It is brought upon by physiological, psychological and environmental events that the body perceives as challenging, threatening or demanding. These events are called stressors. Untreated chronic stress can result in serious health conditions including anxiety, insomnia, muscle pain, high blood pressure and a weakened immune system. Research shows that stress can contribute to the development of major chronic conditions, such as heart disease, depression and obesity. Some studies have even suggested that unhealthy chronic stress management, such as overeating “comfort” foods, has contributed to the growing obesity epidemic  Ronit Mor, NDThe immune system is made up of many different kinds of cells that protect the body from germs, viruses and other invaders. These cells need to co-exist in a certain balance for good health to be maintained. Many factors, including diet, lifestyle, and exercise can tip this balance, creating immune cells that can harm, rather than protect, our bodies.
Here are a few habits that may leave you vulnerable to disease: You’re ALWAYS stressed  Russell Skinner, MDAre you constantly struck down by colds, flu and other infections – no matter how well you look after yourself?
If yes, then perhaps your stress levels are to blame. Stress is the body’s reaction to a physical, mental or emotional strain or tension. It is brought upon by physiological, psychological and environmental events that the body perceives as challenging, threatening or demanding. These events are called stressors. When stressors are present, your body’s “fight-or-flight” reaction gets turned on. Your brain sends defense signals to the endocrine system resulting in an onslaught of stress hormones being pumped around the body. While these hormones are useful in acute situations, their ability to interfere with the immune system can result in inflammation, reduced white blood cells, and a higher susceptibility to infection and tissue damage.  Ronit Mor, NDStress negatively impacts our bodies and can be blamed for spiking the blood pressure, weakening the immune system, and increasing the risk for heart disease and stroke. But did you know that stress can also be the culprit for unwanted weight gain?
According to a Gallup poll, 8 out of 10 Americans are afflicted by stress, and similarly, 7 out of 10 Americans are overweight. This is more than a coincidence. There’s a direct correlation between stress and obesity. When we encounter a perceived threat, the stress response system within our body is triggered, surging us with adrenaline, preparing us for fight or flight. Cortisol—the stress hormone—is released within the body, and it’s responsible influencing, regulating, and replenishing our system in response to stress. This is essential for the maintenance of homeostasis, but when stress is chronic, cortisol is continuously secreted, and that brings disturbance in our lives.  Russell Skinner, MDWhile the popular song suggests “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” for some, this statement doesn’t ring true. The holidays are times of peace and joy, but for many, the season is filled with anxiety. According to a poll by the American Psychological Association, nearly a quarter of Americans reported symptoms of extreme stress during the holidays. A survey, conducted by Healthline in 2015, revealed that 62% of respondents describe their stress level as “very or somewhat” elevated during the holiday season.
What is the treatment for anxiety? While there are prescription drugs available that are designed to treat anxiety, such as Xanax, most of the conventional medications can not only be costly but also harmful for you. Besides the risk of addiction, these pharmaceuticals contain severe side effects including paranoia, suicidal thoughts, impaired memory, judgment, and coordination. The good news is that there are natural solutions for anxiety. |
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