Give your mood & energy a boost

If the skies are bright and sunny but you're frazzled and fatigued, your vagus nerve may need TLC. Known as “the great wandering protector,” the nerve plays key roles in optimizing your mood and energy. Plus, experts reporting in Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine note that a strong vagus nerve enhances heart health by keeping high blood pressure and inflammation in check. And while everyday stress and aging can weaken the vagus over time, you can strengthen the nerve with these easy tips

- Melissa Gotthardt

Snack on nuts and seeds

A 1-oz. handful of pumpkin seeds delivers 336 mg of magnesium, while the same amount of cashews supplies 83 mg of the mineral. And a German study found that people who upped their magnesium intake by 400 mg daily increased their heart rate variability (HRV), a marker of vagus nerve strength, in 12 weeks. Magnesium activates the parasympathetic nervous system, producing a “rest and digest” response that tones the vagus nerve. Other foods rich in magnesium: Almonds, walnuts, dark chocolate, black beans and leafy greens.

Relax with a ‘royal’ tea