3 Things To Know About Your Vagus Nerve & Thyroid

The Vagus Nerve and the thyroid gland are intricately connected. The Vagus Nerve plays a vital role in regulating thyroid hormone production and secretion. It stimulates the release of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) from the hypothalamus, which in turn triggers the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland. It gets us out of fight or flight and turns on ‘rest and digest mode’, which is pretty awesome in itself. However, what is even more awesome is the fact that we can actively work on improving our vagal tone with simple, short daily exercises. More on that below!

Previously, we explored the thyroid healing puzzle a little deeper by learning more about the chronic stress & thyroid connection. If you are new here, or have been following me for a while, you will know that nervous system regulation and trauma healing is the cornerstone of my thyroid approach.

Now, I’d like to introduce you to the Vagus Nerve.

3 Things To Know About Your Vagus Nerve

The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the human body, extending from the brainstem all the way to the abdomen, and is a major player in the parasympathetic nervous system. Our brains and bodies communicate through the vagus nerve! It is responsible for a wide variety of bodily functions, including regulating heart rate, controlling digestive processes, and influencing respiratory rate.
Stimulation of the vagus nerve has been used as a treatment for various medical conditions, such as depression, epilepsy, and inflammation, by reducing activity in the sympathetic nervous system and increasing activity in the parasympathetic nervous system. Bye bye fight or flight and hello regulation!
The vagus nerve is also involved in the “gut-brain axis,” which refers to the two-way communication between our gut and the central nervous system. This communication allows for the regulation of digestion and appetite, as well as sending signals related to mood and emotion.

2 Reasons We Consider Our Vagus Nerve When Healing Our thyroid

The thyroid gland has receptors for acetylcholine, which is the neurotransmitter released by the vagus nerve. This means that the vagus nerve can directly influence thyroid function. Dysfunction of the vagus nerve can lead to thyroid problems.

For example, low vagal tone has been associated with an increased risk of hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), while high vagal tone has been linked to an increased risk of hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid).
Thyroid disorders can affect the vagus nerve. Hypothyroidism, for example, can lead to nerve damage and impaired nerve function. There is also evidence to suggest that vagus nerve stimulation may be a potential treatment for certain thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (an autoimmune condition that causes hypothyroidism).

Overall, the vagus nerve and the thyroid gland are intricately connected and their interactions play an important role in regulating overall health and well-being.

I suggest we all make vagus nerve stimulation our new spring-time hobby

1 Thing To Try

There are several ways to improve vagal tone, which can lead to improved physical and emotional well-being. One of my favourites is…

Deep breathing exercises:

Breathing slowly and deeply from the diaphragm can stimulate the vagus nerve and promote relaxation. I am a huge fan of physiological sigh breathing pattern (inspired by my neuroscientist crush dr. Huberman 😍) double inhale through the nose, extended exhale through the mouth.

… and some more things to try as I don’t gate keep 😉

Regular exercise: Physical activity has been shown to improve vagal tone, so regular exercise is beneficial. Obviously the energy levels will vary with thyroid conditions but even doing the stretches or a little Qi Gong will make a difference!
Meditation and mindfulness practices: Mindfulness meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques have been found to increase vagal tone and reduce stress.
Cold exposure: Cold showers or immersing your face in cold water can activate the vagus nerve, as it responds to the body’s stress response to cold. And you don’t have to take full-on, only cold showers – just finish your normal, lovely warm shower with 1 minute cold rinse (and do your breathwork at the same time!). You can also try dipping your face only in ice-cold water, especially if you feel a panic attach looming.
Social connection: Interpersonal connection, social support, and positive relationships can also improve vagal tone. Research has shown that spending time with loved ones, laughing and hugging, and other forms of social bonding can stimulate the vagus nerve. Cats and dogs also count.
Eating nutrient-rich foods and supplements that support the vagus nerve: Such as probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, ashwagandha, licorice root, ginger, and magnesium can also support vagal tone.

So, what do you think? Are you going to add some vagus nerve stimulation to your routines? Let me know and also please know, I’m here if you have any questions.

PS. If you’re looking to support your adrenals and regulate the heck out of your nervous system (gently) my small group programme, BLOOM was made for you.