Why are scientists so excited about the vagus nerve? – podcast

Serving as a two-way ‘electrical superhighway’, the vagus nerve –
which is actually a pair of nerves – allows for communication
between the brain and the heart, lungs and abdominal organs. And
because of this, it has been shown to help control things such as
the heart rate, breathing, digestion and even immune responses.
Now, scientists and health influencers are asking whether
stimulating the vagus nerve could transform physical and mental
health. Science correspondent Linda Geddes tells Ian Sample about
her recent investigation into the hype and science surrounding the
vagus nerve, and also whether her own experiment with an allegedly
nerve-stimulating device is having any effect. Help support our
independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod