183: The Neuroscience Behind Doomscrolling

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, I dive into the science behind doomscrolling, from why we get stuck endlessly on our phones late at night to what’s really happening inside our brains and bodies during those scrolling marathons. I explore the neuroscience of decision fatigue, explain how our visual systems and nervous states are affected, and uncover how screen habits send us into stress mode instead of helping us truly wind down.One concept discussed was the powerful link between our visual focus and nervous system state, illustrating how narrowing our gaze on our phones turns off the calming vagus nerve and ramps up stress hormones. I also share practical strategies like the 20-20-20 rule, physiologic sigh breathing, and creating tech boundaries in the evening to support better sleep and healthier habits.If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend who might benefit! Don’t forget to rate the podcast and consider joining the free Health Upgraded community for more resources and weekly support. Upgrade your evenings, break the doom scrolling cycle, and give your body the healthy rest it deserves!Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this special “Ask Us Anything #2” episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, Valerie Driscoll and Sara Tate join me to answer questions from our Health Upgraded community.We talk about what can happen when you start vagus nerve stimulation too early and why it’s important not to introduce too many new treatments or tools before your body is ready.We also discuss the importance of checking the basics first, including digestion, bowel movements, hydration, stress levels, and healthy ways to cope with stress. Before trying more advanced tools like stimulators or cold plunges, it’s important to make sure your body has a strong foundation.If you enjoyed the conversation, share the episode with someone who might find it helpful. Remember, good health starts with getting the basics right before adding more to your routine.Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, we are joined by John Hacker, founder of NeurGear and creator of the ZenBud ultrasound vagus nerve stimulator. The conversation covers the science behind vagus nerve stimulation, comparing technologies like ultrasound and electrical stimulation, and exploring their therapeutic applications in areas such as mental health, stress, and chronic pain.Together, we dive into the challenges and controversies in the world of bioelectronic medicine, highlighting the impact of the medical and wellness industries, regulatory hurdles, and the importance of usability and patient compliance. We discuss real-world stories, clinical outcomes, and the crucial role of personalized care in ensuring sustainable health improvements through technology.If you're intrigued by the future of health technology and want to discover how vagus nerve stimulation could benefit you or someone you know, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Share this episode with friends, and remember to follow the show so you never miss an update on cutting-edge health strategies!   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-097629aaJon HackerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-hacker/

In this episode, I dive into the world of cold plunges, breaking down the science, the hype, and what really matters for your health. We discuss the latest research on cold exposure, including its impact on stress, recovery, resilience, and neurochemistry. But the key takeaway? It’s not just about how cold the water is! A big part of the benefits comes from how you breathe during the process.I highlight when cold immersion can be helpful and who needs to exercise caution or avoid it altogether. There’s special emphasis on individual capacity, differences between men and women, and practical ways to get the benefits without going to extremes. For anyone considering cold plunges or cold showers, it’s essential to listen to your body and focus on breathing, not just temperature.Loved this episode or know someone curious about cold plunges? Share it with a friend who could benefit from understanding the real science behind this health trend! If you want more tips and want to join our community, check out healthupgraded.com. Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode that could help you upgrade your health!Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Dana Johnson, a leading expert in occupational therapy and whole-body apraxia. Together, we explore the often-misunderstood world of autism, focusing on the challenges of motor planning, sensory processing, and the brain-body disconnect that affects so many individuals and their families.Dr. Dana Johnson shares her journey into the field, highlighting the importance of understanding apraxia beyond speech, and shines light on how intentional movement, regulation, and small lifestyle changes can significantly improve outcomes for people with autism. The conversation also covers the roles of gut health, mitochondrial function, and parental co-regulation, offering real-world strategies and hope for families facing these daily struggles.If you know someone impacted by autism or are seeking approachable, science-backed strategies to help loved ones, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t forget to share it with someone who would benefit. Let’s build a more supportive and informed community 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. Dana JohnsonWebsite: https://drdanajohnson.com/ 

In this special "Ask Us Anything" episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, I am joined by Valerie Driscoll and Sara Tate to answer questions from our Health Upgraded community. The panel dives into a question about anxiety medication and its impact on heart rate and HRV, providing insights on the physiological and biochemical effects of tricyclic antidepressants.Throughout the episode, Sara shares valuable nutrition strategies, emphasizing the importance of a plant-forward, fiber-rich diet and how the gut-brain connection influences mental health. Valerie offers practical mindfulness tools and highlights the importance of bringing awareness to the present moment as a means of managing anxiety and depression.If you found this discussion helpful or know someone who could benefit from it, don’t forget to share this episode! To get your questions answered in future episodes, join the Health Upgraded community at healthupgraded.com and be part of the conversation. Upgrade your health journey with us—one question at a time!Learn about the community at www.healthupgraded.com Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode, we sit down with neurologist Dr. David Perlmutter to explore the fascinating science behind optimal brain health. We dive deep into topics from microglial cells and immunometabolism to the importance of addressing root causes like lifestyle and diet for preventing neurodegenerative diseases.Dr. David Perlmutter shares his journey into integrative neurology, emphasizing how metabolic health, inflammation, and stress impact brain function. The conversation covers practical insights on how dietary choices, exercise, sleep, and stress management can maintain cognitive vitality and longevity. Groundbreaking concepts like biological aging, mitochondrial health, and the latest research on treatments and prevention round out an empowering and thought-provoking discussion.Ready to take control of your brain's future? Listen in, share this episode with three friends, and start applying these empowering insights to upgrade your health. Don’t forget to check out Dr. Perlmutter’s new book, Brain Defenders, for deeper guidance.  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. David PerlmutterWebsite: https://drperlmutter.com/Books: https://drperlmutter.com/books/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, I dive into the common everyday habits that quietly sabotage your vagus nerve health. While many people try to add practices like cold plunges and breathwork, I explain why removing certain negative behaviors may be even more powerful for optimizing your nervous system.I explore the top seven habits that can keep you stuck in a sympathetic, stressed state: alcohol consumption, late-night eating, sedentary living, evening screen time, unhealthy stress coping, mouth and upper chest breathing, and chronic sleep debt or irregular sleep timing. I break down the science behind how each habit undermines vagus nerve function and share easy, practical steps to start shifting towards better health right away.If you’re ready to feel your best, here’s my challenge for you: pick one sabotaging habit from the list and subtract it for just a week. Notice what happens to your heart rate variability and overall well-being. Share your experiences with me, and let’s keep the conversation going toward a healthier, more balanced you!Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Sabine Hazan, a pioneering gastroenterologist and one of the world's leading voices in microbiome research. Together, we explore the incredible impact of gut health on overall well-being and discuss her groundbreaking work in microbiome testing, fecal microbiota transplants, and the vital role of Bifidobacteria in human health. Dr. Hazan shares her remarkable journey, from challenging conventional thinking to becoming a global leader in microbiome science. Along the way, we uncover how the gut microbiome may influence conditions such as autism, Alzheimer's disease, and immune resilience, while also examining the effects of antibiotics, modern diets, and other everyday factors that shape our gut ecosystem.We also take a closer look at the limitations of current microbiome testing, the misconceptions surrounding popular probiotic products, and why personalized, evidence-based approaches, rather than one-size-fits-all solutions, represent the future of gut health. Dr. Hazan explains that restoring a healthy microbiome isn't simply about adding beneficial bacteria. It also requires improving our environment, daily habits, nutrition, and even the way we support children's health from an early age.If you enjoyed this conversation and were inspired by Dr. Hazan's mission to map the world's microbiome and advance the future of human health, please share this episode with someone who could benefit from it. Every conversation helps raise awareness and supports the research that has the potential to transform all of our health.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. Sabine HazanWebsite: https://sabinehazanmd.com/

In this episode, I answer one of the questions I get asked the most: "What is a good HRV, and why isn't mine improving?"FREE LIVE VAGUS NERVE WORKSHOP - "DECODE AND RESET"AUGUST 25, 2026 @ 7:30pm ESTCLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FREE!The truth is, there isn't one perfect HRV number that everyone should aim for. Instead of worrying about a single reading, it's much more helpful to look at how your HRV changes over time. Your wearable device is there to give you useful information about your body, not to judge your health. Many everyday factors can affect your numbers, and understanding the bigger picture is what really matters.I also talk about the key health metrics worth paying attention to, including HRV, sleep score, resilience, daily activity, and recovery index. You'll learn what these numbers actually mean and how to use them to make better decisions for your health without becoming overwhelmed by the data.If you'd like to better understand your HRV and wellness data, join the Health Upgraded team and me for our free interactive workshop on August 25 at 7:30 PM Eastern. Bring your own data, learn how to interpret it, and leave with a personalized plan to improve your health and resilience. Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib