How Nervous System Health Impacts Digestion, Sleep, and Heart Wellness

The way I typically describe illness to my patients is that although the human body is extremely well-designed, every family line tends to have an organ system that’s more vulnerable than others.

Some people have heart disease or high blood pressure (the cardiovascular system) that runs in their family. Some have diabetes (the metabolic/endocrine system). Others have fibroids or menstrual cycle conditions (the hormonal system) that are common among multiple family members.

Sometimes thinking about health this way can help patients feel less blame, or less alone, in managing their symptoms. It can also be empowering. Instead of treating themselves like something is broken or they’ve done something wrong, understanding that symptoms may stem from a family vulnerability helps people approach themselves with more patience and support.

This is especially helpful when it comes to mental health. Because it’s not something you can physically see, it’s easier to question whether it’s real — or even worthy of attention or treatment.

Let me be clear: If you can feel it, it is real. And because you are feeling it, it is officially worthy of being seen and supported.

How the nervous system works

In my world, I consider mental health to be connected to imbalances in the nervous system. The nervous system is complex, with many moving parts, so it helps to have a basic understanding of how it’s organized.

Just like telephone and internet wires send data from house to house, the nervous system serves as the body’s internal wiring. Nerves innervate (connect to) other organs and deliver messages — like telling the stomach to produce acid or prompting the heart to beat faster.

The main controller of this system is the brain, which sends out messages through large nerve bundles that branch into smaller ones throughout the body.

The brain is constantly processing information — what we see, feel, and even think. It uses that data to send signals throughout the body. For example, the moment we smell food, the brain alerts the mouth and stomach to get ready to break down that burger we’re about to devour.

This same system is at work in mental health. Here’s a simplified version: When the brain detects negative input, it might respond by releasing positive chemicals like dopamine or serotonin to help rebalance the system. Cortisol is released when the body perceives danger or is under stress.

Some conditions are caused by an overactive nervous system, while others result from an underactive one. When the brain and nervous system are under-stimulated, we tend to feel down, low-energy or depressed. On the flip side, symptoms like anxiety, restlessness or difficulty focusing are often linked to overstimulation.

Nervous system + digestive health

When the nervous system needs support, whether it’s overactive or underactive, it often affects the digestive system. This helps explain why symptoms like bloating, indigestion, acid reflux, constipation and excess gas often show up during times of stress.

If you’re dealing with these symptoms, try simple adjustments like eating smaller meals, choosing lighter foods (more vegetables, less red meat and sugar), and reducing alcohol or caffeine, at least until the symptoms pass.

A group of herbs called “carminatives” can help ease digestion. Adding more rosemary, mint, fennel or ginger into your meals can assist your body in breaking down food and moving it through more smoothly.

For symptoms specific to the stomach, herbs like slippery elm or marshmallow root (not the candy!) can help soothe inflamed tissue. Probiotics, L-glutamine and prunes (yes, the fruit) may also help relieve lower digestive issues.

Nervous system + sleep

Those who struggle with sleep — falling asleep, staying asleep, or both — often have an underlying nervous system imbalance.

If this is you, try shifting your nighttime routine about 30 to 60 minutes before bed. Avoid watching or scrolling through anything that might overstimulate your system (yes, including social media).

Instead, opt for calming activities: dim the lights, play soft music, take a warm shower or bath, read a book, or even color.

Herbs and nutrients that support sleep include “hops,” “L-theanine,” “passionflower” and “chamomile” — some of my personal favorites.

Nervous system + cardiovascular health

When patients come in with symptoms like high blood pressure, irregular heart rate, or angina, I also look at supporting the nervous system in addition to the cardiovascular system.

When the body experiences emotional stress, adrenaline is released, stimulating the heart to beat faster. This increase in heart rate can lead to higher blood pressure. So managing stress is crucial when treating cardiovascular issues.

“Passionflower” is one of my go-to herbs in these situations. It gently calms both the nervous and cardiovascular systems.

A final note

Every-thing isn’t for every-body. Before starting any new supplement or herb, check in with your trusted health practitioner.

Learn more about Dr. Ayanna Quamina and her practice at www.drayannaq.com.

Email her directly at [email protected].

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