Hi Nancy, Such a great question! It can be confusing, so let me see if I can clarify. Parasym Plus boosts acetylcholine, which stimulates the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve supports all aspects of digestion and allows a slower heart rate (it supports the parasympathetic nervous system — the system that calms the body). But it ALSO crosses the blood-brain-barrier to boost acetylcholine for the brain with improves alertness, short-term memory and cognition. You may have seen how I just couldn’t stay awake or think due to extremely low acetylcholine in my brain. Not only did my GI tract begin to function again, my brain popped back to life! At first, I needed a few doses during the day — I could feel it wear off, but know that I was extraordinarily sick at that time! I hope it is hugely helpful for you, too. Hang in, my friend. 🙂 .