Back
1 request
BBC News

Ever feel the need to switch off? Your vagus nerve might hold the key

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy0k9yz5wexoSee all reviews for BBC News
Total Score
Reviewed by 1 scientist
Evidence
Balance
Clarity
Share on Twitter

Reviews

EM
Eleanor Mawson
Reviewed on 10 Nov 2025
4
Evidence
7
Balance
7
Clarity

The article is relatively well balanced in that it highlights that there is very little scientific evidence to support these methods, and scientific experts are consulted and quoted.

The vagus nerve is certainly important and plays a role in stress and the brain-body relationship. However, there is very little evidence to say that it is something you can train and there is no evidence provided that the benefit you get from these classes or external stimulators is specifically to do with changing the function of your vagus nerve.

The article has a large focus on experiences of some people using these methods to help their wellbeing. These are important perspectives. However, it's importnat that all tools are assessed using randomised control trials so we can show whether the benefit is because it really works or if it is simply down to placebo - you feel a benefit because you're doing something and taking action, not because it's having a physical effect on your body.

The article is correct to state that none of this should be used as medical advice or treatment and that if you are unwell you should always get medical advice as soon as possible.

0
Thank you for reporting this comment, this will be passed on to administrators.