147: Biohacking the Vagus Nerve f. Ben Greenfield

In this inspiring episode, we welcome Dr. Shivani Gupta to dive into the world of inflammation and holistic health. Drawing from her decades of Ayurvedic expertise and her upcoming book, "The Inflammation Code," Dr. Shivani shares how ancient eastern practices can offer solutions to modern wellness challenges. The conversation explores Ayurveda’s unique approach to inflammation, covering doshas, digestive fire, daily rhythms, and the importance of real, fresh food and self-care habits.You will learn practical ways to reduce both physical and mental inflammation, from dietary tweaks to circadian rhythms and anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric. We also address the pitfalls of over-relying on health metrics and wearables, encouraging a balanced perspective that prioritizes intuition and lifestyle over obsession with numbers.If you know someone struggling with chronic stress, pain, or gut issues, don’t keep this episode to yourself! Share it with friends who could benefit from Dr. Shivani’s wisdom and start your journey toward vibrant, resilient health together. Remember, simple changes can spark real healing. Tune in and spread the upgrade! 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. Shivani Gupta Website: https://shivanigupta.com/Book: https://www.theinflammationcode.com/sales-page1756927339554

In this episode, I dive deep into the often-overlooked connection between concussion, whiplash, and vagus nerve dysfunction. Drawing from my experience as a chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner, I break down what actually happens in our nervous system during head and neck injuries, and why imaging often looks normal, even when troubling symptoms like dizziness, heart palpitations, and exercise intolerance persist for months.I walk you through the mechanisms behind how concussions and whiplash disrupt autonomic regulation, leading to everything from sleep issues to gut problems. There's also a focus on practical ways to assess and treat these symptoms, including the power of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation, proper mechanical assessments, graded rehab, and the crucial role of heart rate variability as a marker of recovery.If you or someone you know has struggled with lingering symptoms after a concussion or whiplash, don’t ignore the possibility of vagus nerve dysfunction. Please share this episode with anyone who could benefit, and remember: seeking the right evaluation is key to getting your health back on track!Dr. Navaz HabibEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

Welcome back to the Health Upgrade Podcast!In this colab episode, host Ben Greenfield dives deep into the mysteries and science of the vagus nerve with Dr. Navaz Habib and JP Errico. Together, they break down what the vagus nerve actually does in your body, including its powerful influence on immune function, gut health, inflammation, and how you feel day-to-day. The episode clears up myths, like the role of the vagus nerve in the “fight, flight, or freeze” response, and offers a clear explanation of key terms such as afferent and efferent nerve fibers.JP and Dr. Habib share practical insights on improving heart rate variability (HRV) through both mind and body strategies, including exercise, meditation, and even cutting-edge biohacking devices for vagal nerve stimulation. They also discuss the connection between the nervous system and immune system, how inflammation influences longevity, and the importance of daily habits that support resilience and recovery.If you’re curious about how to enhance your health, longevity, and overall well-being by tapping into your body’s own superhighway, this episode is packed with science, easy-to-follow advice, and actionable takeaways. Don’t forget to check out the show notes for links to recommended books, devices, and more. Tune in, leave your feedback, and start upgrading your health today! 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

On this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, we sit down with our guest, Tom O'Bryan, to dive into the core of what it takes to truly upgrade your health. We explore the limitations of modern healthcare, contrasting disease management with the proactive creation of genuine wellness. Tom shares his expertise on the impact of toxins, stress, and functional medicine, emphasizing the need to address underlying root causes rather than just symptoms.You will get a practical roadmap for building resilient health, from comprehensive testing protocols to the importance of emotional and psychological well-being. The conversation covers fertility challenges, the influence of chronic stress, and how our mindset can shape our biology. The speakers break down their approaches with real-world examples, highlighting the essential roles of biochemistry, structure, emotional health, and even electromagnetic exposuresReady to create a healthier, more resilient you? Tune in, take notes, and share this episode with three people who could benefit from these insights. Your journey to optimal health begins here! 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 sit down with nutrition expert Ashley Koff to dive deep into the world of optimal health for high performers. Together, we explore the real science behind weight management, focusing on GLP-1 medications and the broader ecosystem of weight health hormones. Ashley shares her personal journey, stresses the power of understanding the vagus nerve, and explains why digestion and the microbiome are pivotal in achieving true “weight health,” not just hitting a number on the scale.The conversation uncovers how holistic approaches, e.g, combining nutrition, the right supplements, and mindful practices, can help optimize health and support those considering or using GLP-1 drugs. We also emphasize the importance of individualized plans, debunking myths around diet, fasting, and compliance while offering practical strategies for real-life results.Ready to upgrade your approach to health and discover how to build a personalized roadmap to your goals? Listen in and learn actionable tips, or check out Ashley Koff’s book “Your Best Shot” and The Better Nutrition Program for more resources and expert support. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with friends who want to thrive!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-097629aaAshley KoffWebsite: https://thebetternutritionprogram.com/about/ 

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, Dr. Navaz Habib reflects on the top five episodes of the year, featuring insightful discussions with renowned guests. The episode highlights clips from conversations with Dr. Davis Brockenshire, Dr. Deanna Minich, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Aimie Apigian, and others, covering topics such as functional medicine, melatonin's role beyond sleep, mitochondrial optimization, trauma biology, and autonomic dysfunction. Each segment offers valuable insights into health and wellness, emphasizing the importance of listening, understanding, and integrating holistic approaches to health.KeywordsHealth Upgrade podcast, Dr. Navaz Habib, functional medicine, melatonin, mitochondrial optimization, trauma biology, autonomic dysfunction, holistic health, wellness, listening, Vagus nerveTakeawaysDr. Davis Brockenshire emphasizes the importance of listening to patients to uncover underlying health issues.Dr. Deanna Minich discusses melatonin's role in mitochondrial function beyond sleep regulation.Dr. Scott Sherr explains the benefits of Methylene Blue for mitochondrial optimization.Dr. Aimie Apigian explores the biology of trauma and its impact on health.Understanding autonomic dysfunction as a link between various health conditions.

In today’s episode, we are joined by our special guest, Valerie Driscoll, and we open up a lively conversation about the hidden benefits of boredom and mindfulness. Valerie Driscoll shares her journey from interior design to functional health coaching and highlights how real personal change begins with small, consistent habits and paying attention to the mind’s natural patterns.Together, we explore how our fast-paced digital lives leave little room for quiet moments and why allowing boredom can spark creativity and personal growth. Discover how mindfulness helps retrain the brain, break unhelpful cycles, and create space for new ideas by calmly observing thoughts and emotions. Hear personal stories and scientific insights that connect everyday life with the workings of the brain’s default mode network.Ready to make boredom your superpower? Share this episode with a friend and try setting aside a few quiet minutes today to tune into your thoughts. Visit healthupgraded.com to learn more and join the Health Upgraded community for ongoing support in building habits, wellness, and creativity.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-097629aaValerie DriscollWebsite: https://www.innerpiececoach.com/ 

In this inspiring episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, I welcome the "holistic kids" who share their journey of writing The Teen Health Revolution, a guide to empower teens to take charge of their health. Together, we dive into why adolescence is a uniquely challenging time for wellness and how lifestyle changes can have a profound, lasting impact. The guests break down the book’s easy-to-follow sections, from gut health to gratitude, mental health, time management, and the importance of sleep.You get a practical tour through the acronym "REVOLUTION," covering actionable steps like managing screen time, spending more time in nature, and integrating mindfulness into daily routines. Also, we highlight the value of simple, science-backed habits, many of which are totally free, and share relatable analogies and tips that make health and wellness accessible and fun for teens, parents, and anyone looking for a health upgrade.Ready to ignite your own health revolution or help the young people in your life thrive? Grab a copy of The Teen Health Revolution, visit https://theholistickidsshow.com/ for more empowering insights. Let’s upgrade teen health together! 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 powerful episode, we welcome the brilliant Dr. Jolene Brighten to tackle some of the most pressing topics in women’s health. Dr. Jolene Brighten shares her journey from gut health to becoming a passionate advocate for empowering women, explaining how conventional medicine has often left their voices unheard. Together, we dig into misunderstood conditions like endometriosis and PMDD, highlighting the crucial (but overlooked­) role of hormones, inflammation, lifestyle, and specialized care.The conversation also shines a light on systemic issues, including the food industry’s influence on public health, the complexities of functional medicine, and the importance of individualized, accessible nutrition and lifestyle changes. Dr. Jolene Brighten breaks down practical steps for listeners, like anti-inflammatory diets, exercise, hydration, and self-tracking, to help everyone take control of their wellbeing, regardless of background or diagnosis.If you found value in this discussion, share it with friends or family who could benefit from the science-backed, compassionate insights. Let’s keep the conversation going and help more people upgrade their 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. Jolene BrightenWebsite: https://drbrighten.com/ 

We sit down with Dr. Davis Brockenshire to explore the power of optimizing health at every stage of life. Together, we unpack strategies for unlocking genetic potential with a focus on the role of the nervous system, immune system, and metabolic balance. Our conversation takes you from preconception and childhood wellness all the way to performance tips for adults and managing stress, blending science and practical advice.We share personal stories, clinical insights, and discuss modern challenges like trauma recovery, sleep quality, and even the impact of wearable tech on understanding your body. Whether it’s nurturing parasympathetic tone, resetting unhealthy patterns, or fine-tuning nutrition and daily habits, we cover actionable ways anyone can begin upgrading their health, supported by the latest research and clinical experience.If you’re looking for inspiration to take control of your well-being, reflect on your lifestyle, or help someone achieve their potential, don’t miss this episode. Share it with three people who could use a health upgrade and join us as we build a community focused on strong habits and lifelong vitality.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. Davis BrockenshireLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-davis-brockenshire-28a94420/