Ask Dr. Nick
On today’s episode, Dr. Nick talks about the importance of measuring one’s heart rate variability as a health marker. Heart rate variability (HRV) is different from heart rate (measured in beats per minute) because it is the amount of change from one heartbeat to the next. As opposed to wanting a low heart rate for good health, a high HRV is desired for longevity. It is really a measure of the autonomic nervous system and the balance between the sympathetic (‘fight or flight’) and parasympathetic (‘rest and digest’) nervous systems. Higher parasympathetic tone leads to a higher HRV, which allows for more adaptability of the body to physical and mental stressors. At the same time, a higher HRV has been shown to increase energy, physical performance, and mental cognition. Check out the video for more in depth information on HRV and how to increase yours for better health!
Reference: Thayer JF, Hansen AL, Saus-Rose E, Johnsen BH. Heart rate variability, prefrontal neural function, and cognitive performance: the neurovisceral integration perspective on self-regulation, adaptation, and health. Ann Behav Med. 2009 Apr;37(2):141-53.
