What is vago vagal reflex?

The vagus nerve is one of the longest nerves in the body and it plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including heart rate, breathing, and digestion. The vago-vagal reflex is a type of reflex that involves the stimulation of the vagus nerve, which results in a series of physiological responses.

This reflex is responsible for inhibiting the release of gastric acid and limiting gastric motility in response to food in the stomach. It is also responsible for stimulating the release of digestive enzymes in the small intestine.

The vago-vagal reflex is activated when the receptors in the stomach detect the presence of food. These receptors send signals to the brain via the vagus nerve, which in turn activates the digestive system.

Disruptions to the vago-vagal reflex can result in a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, such as acid reflux, gastroparesis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Treatment for these conditions often involves targeting the vagus nerve or its branches to restore proper function.