A prominent neurosurgeon has identified inflammation as the primary danger to human lifespan, surpassing infection as the leading health threat.
Dr Kevin Tracey, who leads the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research as president and chief executive, maintains that inflammatory processes underlie major killers, including cancer, cardiac disease, diabetes and autoimmune disorders.
The neurosurgeon and inflammation specialist has developed a daily regimen targeting the vagus nerve to combat "diseases of inflammation".
His approach centres on three straightforward practices that he believes could help prevent chronic illnesses.
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|Dr Tracey's insights appear in his recent publication
Dr Tracey's insights appear in his recent publication examining vagus nerve science and its therapeutic potential.
The vagus nerve functions as a crucial communication pathway linking the brain, heart and digestive system.
This extensive network comprises 200,000 nerve fibres originating from the brainstem and extending throughout the body's organs and gut.
As a fundamental component of the parasympathetic nervous system, the nerve helps regulate various bodily functions.
Medical professionals have successfully used vagus nerve stimulation to treat conditions ranging from epilepsy to depression and gastroparesis.
Dr Tracey's team made a groundbreaking discovery in 1998, establishing the connection between vagus nerve activation and inflammation reduction.
Their research using mice demonstrated that nerve stimulation could decrease blood inflammation levels by 75 per cent.
Dr Tracey incorporates physical activity into his schedule five days weekly, dedicating 30 to 45 minutes to varied exercises. His regime combines cardiovascular work, resistance training, yoga and flexibility exercises.
"Strength training preserves muscle mass, improves metabolic function, and prevents injuries. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, enhances cardiovascular health and endurance," he explained.
The neurosurgeon also subjects himself to cold water exposure, switching his shower to frigid temperatures for two to three minutes at the conclusion of each wash.
This practice allegedly triggers the body's stress response before ultimately activating the parasympathetic nervous system.
His morning routine includes a minimum of 10 minutes devoted to meditation.
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|The neurosurgeon subjects himself to cold water exposure to boost his lifespan
Research indicates cold exposure may offer multiple health advantages beyond inflammation control. According to UCLA Health, cold therapy can enhance immunity against common infections, alleviate pain, address depressive symptoms, boost metabolic rate and enhance blood circulation.
The mechanism involves blood vessel constriction during cold exposure, directing oxygen-rich blood to essential organs. Upon rewarming, improved circulation helps eliminate inflammatory substances and exercise-related muscle discomfort.
A 2022 study examining nearly 5,000 participants found those practising mindfulness techniques, including meditation, displayed reduced inflammatory biomarkers in blood samples compared to non-practitioners.
While Dr Tracey acknowledges the precise mechanisms remain incompletely understood, he advocates these practices based on emerging evidence and personal experience with stress reduction.