136: The Autonomic Deregulation Theory of Aging

In this episode, we share highlights from a recent Biohacker Expo talk, exploring why we age and how the autonomic nervous system, especially the vagus nerve, plays a central role in the process. We break down compelling research, like Nobel Prize-winning discoveries by Shinya Yamanaka and the promising work of experts in reversing aging. Together, we sort aging’s hallmarks into categories including energy, information, and homeostasis, showing how autonomic balance influences everything from mitochondria and epigenetics to immune function and cellular renewal.Throughout the conversation, we discuss the impact of chronic stress and why supporting parasympathetic activity can decelerate aging. We explain how everyday habits (diet, brain and body exercise, sleep, fasting, and even neurostimulation) can help maintain cellular health and slow the aging clock. Practical recommendations are given, including the latest vagus nerve technology and classic mindfulness approaches, making the science accessible and actionable.Share this episode with someone curious about longevity or improving their vitality. If you’re a clinician or biohacker, use these insights to inspire new approaches and upgrade your health journey. We’d love to see you embrace these tools and help others benefit too.Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of the Cell Danger Response, your body’s built-in alarm system designed to protect cells from threats like pathogens, toxins, stress, and metabolic imbalances. We break down how mitochondria (your cell’s powerhouses) trigger this response and why factors like leaky gut, chronic stress, and exposure to toxins ramp up inflammation and disrupt your cellular health. Plus, we explore the critical roles of calcium, reactive oxygen species, and various cellular sensors.We also connect the dots between everyday habits, such as diet, hydration, breathing, and stress management, and their impact on your long-term health, energy, and aging. From practical tips on optimizing hydration and nutrition to the profound effects of trauma and psychosocial stress on cell function, we highlight actionable steps to help minimize the cell danger response in your life.Ready to upgrade your health? Tune in and discover practical strategies for lowering cellular stress, boosting mitochondrial function, and supporting healthy longevity. If you find these insights useful, don’t forget to subscribe, share the episode, and revisit previous related episodes for a complete understanding of inflammation, gut health, aging, and more!Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa

In this insightful episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, we are joined by Dr. Matthew Antonucci for a wide-ranging conversation about optimal health, chiropractic neurology, and the science behind brain and body integration. Together, we explore the roots of chiropractic and osteopathic medicine, the importance of holistic healing, and the fascinating connections between the nervous system, immune function, and sensory input.The discussion dives deep into concussion, vestibular issues, and the autonomic nervous system, highlighting how sensations, error detection, and neuroplasticity are central to brain retraining and recovery. Dr. Antonucci shares engaging examples, like the rubber hand illusion and phantom limb pain, to illuminate how our perceptions and past experiences shape both our physical and emotional responses.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to share it with someone who would benefit from a fresh perspective on health, especially those with neurological concerns or unexplained symptoms. Subscribe to the podcast for upcoming conversations. Let’s upgrade our health together!Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aaDr. Matthew AntonucciWebsite https://drantonucci.com/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, we dive deep into the groundbreaking world of anti-aging medicine, exploring the fascinating science behind partial cellular reprogramming using the Yamanaka factors, also known as OSKM. We discuss how these four proteins, discovered by Nobel laureate Dr. Shinya Yamanaka, can reverse a cell’s biological age and potentially rejuvenate organs and tissues. We also touch on the ethical, political, and practical challenges that have shaped the field, and spotlight exciting new breakthroughs driven by AI and biotech companies leading the race toward longevity therapies.We take a closer look at the latest research, including promising animal studies and innovations spearheaded by leading scientists and companies, all aiming to make regenerative treatments more effective and one day, widely available. The discussion covers everything from gene activation and drug development to future applications in conditions such as blindness, liver disease, and even diabetes. We also examine broader societal and regulatory questions raised by the promise of “rejuvenation medicine” and why healthy habits are still so important.Curious about the future of longevity medicine? Tune in to hear our thoughts on what’s just around the corner and how anti-aging breakthroughs might transform healthcare. If you found this episode enlightening, share it with a friend who wants to upgrade their health, and stay with us for more cutting-edge conversations!Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, we dive deep into the misunderstood world of body fat, breaking down the key differences between subcutaneous and visceral fat. We discuss why “fat isn’t just fat,” clarifying how where fat is stored in the body can dramatically influence your health, from increasing the risks of chronic diseases to affecting mood, cognition, and even longevity.We share practical insights into why some people are more prone to storing fat around their organs, highlight the dangers of visceral fat (including fatty liver and myosteatosis), and reveal how stress, diet, muscle use, and even sleep can shift your body’s fat storage patterns. Strategies like intermittent fasting, strength training, and vagus nerve stimulation are discussed to help listeners take charge of their metabolic health and reduce harmful visceral fat.If you’ve ever wondered why some fats are worse for your health, or want clear, actionable steps to upgrade your wellbeing, this episode is packed with myth-busting info and real-world advice. Share this episode with friends or family who could benefit, and let’s work together to optimize our health from the inside out!Contact info:Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa 

In this episode, I introduce the Vegas Protocol, a new program designed to help high performers and health seekers find more resilience and vitality in their daily lives. I share how the Vegas Protocol evolved, the five key steps: Validate, Activate, Gut Brain Immune Optimization, Unburden, and Sustain, and why each plays a valuable role in optimizing well-being. I also discuss practical tools like breathwork, lab testing, mindful habits, and how wearable tech can offer helpful insights into your health journey.Throughout the conversation, we explore how the vagus nerve supports recovery, performance, and emotional health. You’ll learn about different types of stress, why both cold plunges and sauna sessions can build resilience, and how habits rooted in science can set you up for lasting success. With stories, analogies, and tips from both hosts, we highlight paths to better sleep, nutrition, and mindset shifts that can transform the way you live and feel each day.Ready to take the next step? I invite you to join our free 10-day Vagus Nerve Jumpstart Mini Course and explore the Health Upgraded online community. Share this episode with friends or family who may benefit, and start building habits that support a vibrant, healthy future!Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa 

In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked root cause behind many common health complaints: autonomic nervous system dysfunction. We break down how symptoms like brain fog, poor sleep, gut issues, and even mood changes can all be interconnected, with autonomic imbalance acting as the missing link. Using easy-to-understand analogies, such as dimmer switches and warning lights, we explore how stress, resilience, sleep quality, and even the gut microbiome play vital roles in your overall health.We also take a closer look at practical tools you can use to assess your health, from wearable sleep trackers to gut microbiome tests. Plus, we share ways to actively restore balance, whether through sleep hygiene, exercise, or vagus nerve stimulation, and highlight the surprising connections between conditions like migraines, IBS, and fibromyalgia.If you or someone you know struggles with multiple unexplained symptoms or chronic health conditions, this episode is for you! Listen, share it with a friend, and start taking simple steps toward upgraded health. Remember, your best day starts with a great night’s sleep. Don’t forget to send this episode to anyone who could benefit, and join us next time for moreContact infoDr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, we sit down with Aimie Apigian MD, to explore the biology of trauma. Dr. Aimie shares her personal journey, from adopting a foster child with severe trauma to her own struggles with burnout, chronic fatigue, and autoimmunity, which pushed her to uncover how trauma imprints itself on the body at a cellular level.Together, we discuss how trauma differs from everyday stress, why unresolved trauma responses get stored in the body, and how this affects long-term health. Drawing on science, personal experience, and clinical insight, Dr. Aimie explains how trauma alters mitochondrial function, immune regulation, and even DNA repair. The conversation also touches on polyvagal theory, resilience building, and why recovery depends on learning to balance sympathetic stress responses with parasympathetic repair.If this conversation resonated with you, don’t forget to follow the Health Upgrade Podcast and share this episode with someone who could benefit. Contact info Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aaAimie Apigian MDWebsite: https://traumahealingaccelerated.com/about/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, we chat with Don Moxley about heart rate variability (HRV) as a powerful tool for optimizing performance and driving better recovery. Don shares his journey from the wrestling mats of Ohio State to pioneering real-world applications of HRV for elite athletes, coaches, and everyday high performers. He tells engaging stories from his work in collegiate wrestling, shares insights from his family’s sports legacy, and walks us through how HRV data and recovery strategies made a difference for champions.The conversation goes beyond athletics, discussing how HRV can guide professionals in high-pressure environments like law, finance, and medicine. The group explores why wearable tech can provide valuable awareness and how elements like sleep, nutrition, targeted supplements such as SPMs, and intentional recovery practices support better HRV and healthier, more resilient living. From practical breathing tips and cold exposure to the importance of purpose and managing daily stress, listeners will find actionable ideas for supporting their own biology.If you’re looking for real-life examples and simple steps to upgrade your performance and wellbeing, this episode is packed with wisdom you can start applying today. Share this episode with a friend who wants to learn how HRV can level up their health journey. Don’t forget to join us again for more inspiring conversations on the Health Upgrade podcast!Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aaDon MoxleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donmoxley/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, we dive deep into the incredible world of mitochondria - the true powerhouses of our cells - and explore why their efficiency is so crucial for optimal health and high performance. We break down mitochondrial uncoupling, the roles of different macronutrients as fuels, and why modern shifts in our diets and lifestyles have impacted our cellular energy and resilience.We also discuss practical strategies to boost mitochondrial health, such as fasting, cold exposure, and incorporating foods rich in polyphenols like vinegar, pumpkin seeds, and cloves. Together, we share insights on the importance of hormetic stressors like exercise and temperature therapy to enhance metabolic flexibility, plus how activating your vagus nerve can lower inflammation and support energy balance.If you’re looking to optimize your energy, improve metabolic health, and future-proof your well-being, this episode is packed with actionable tips! Share it with friends or family members who want to upgrade their health, and don’t forget to implement some of these science-backed strategies in your daily routine. We’re excited to help you on your journey to a healthier, more resilient you!Contact info:Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabibJP ErricoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa