Vagal Tone is a physiological measure of the activity of the Vagus nerve, the longest nerve of the autonomic nervous system, reflecting the balance and responsiveness of the parasympathetic nervous system. High vagal tone is clinically associated with greater heart rate variability (HRV), a marker of cardiovascular health, stress resilience, and the body’s capacity to quickly recover from stressful events. It plays a crucial role in the gut-brain axis, modulating inflammation, digestion, and the secretion of certain gut hormones. Enhancing vagal tone is a key non-pharmacological strategy in wellness and longevity protocols.
Origin
The term combines “vagal,” referring to the Vagus nerve (Latin for “wandering”), with “tone,” a term used in physiology to describe the normal, continuous state of tension or activity in a nerve or muscle. The concept gained prominence in psychophysiology and neuroendocrinology as a measurable biomarker of autonomic regulation. Its measurement through HRV provides a quantitative assessment of the body’s regulatory capacity.
Mechanism
The mechanism is mediated by the efferent fibers of the Vagus nerve, which release the neurotransmitter acetylcholine onto target organs, particularly the heart and gastrointestinal tract. A high vagal tone indicates a robust, rapid parasympathetic response, allowing the heart rate to fluctuate appropriately in response to breathing and emotional states. This strong parasympathetic influence promotes a “rest and digest” state, suppressing the sympathetic “fight or flight” response, thereby dampening systemic inflammation and optimizing visceral organ function.
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