Want better health, less anxiety, more sleep? You've got a nerve
Who's acquainted with their vagus nerve? If you're on Instagram or TikTok, you'll know that you need to 'reset' the thing to soothe your nervous system and reduce anxiety, and that investing in 'vagus massage oil' or a vibrating bracelet or pressing an ice pack to your chest will do it. All your ills will be cured. Allegedly.
'The vagus nerve [the longest cranial nerve in the body] is one of the most popular nerves in social media today,' the neurosurgeon Kevin Tracey declares. And it deserves to be celebrated. 'Resting and digesting and keeping calm all depend on your vagus nerve, which is the linchpin of the parasympathetic nervous system,' he says.
Tracey is the professor and president of Northwell Health's Feinstein Institutes for
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The 'king' of fruits 'Mangoes, known as the 'king of fruits' in India, are rich sources of nutrients that support immune and heart health such potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A, B6, folate, C, and E, as well as phytochemicals such as mangiferin, anthocyanins, gallic acid, and kaempferol to name a few. Some studies have suggested that these phytochemicals are cardio-protective against inflammation, oxidative stress, and support blood vessel health, as well as digestive health from the fiber and natural enzymes.' — Monique Richard, MS, RDN, LDN For readers interested in trying to incorporate mangoes more often into their diet, Richard suggested a few easy ways: Adding to salads — fruit, greens, or even pasta salads Add to smoothies Puree into salad dressings and marinades, or freeze into Popsicle-like frozen treats or gelato Add to, or substitute for, fruit in a variety of salsa, chutney, and relish recipes Top yogurt, cottage cheese, or ricotta toast Mix with mint or basil to top baked or grilled tilapia, salmon, or flounder Peel and enjoy with a handful of nuts and seeds for a healthy snack Small, peeled portions can be dropped into your juicer to add refreshing sweetness to your favorite vegetable juices Enjoy it by itself as a healthy addition to a balanced breakfast, lunch, or dinner 'Add mangoes to the list of versatile fruits and vegetables that are nutritious, delicious and advantageous to your heart health, and enjoy!,' Richard added.
