Boosting Your Lymphatic System and Immune Function: Tips for a Healthier You

The lymphatic system is one of the most overlooked yet significant systems in the body. It includes a complex network of vessels, ducts, lymph nodes, the spleen, the thymus, the adenoids, and the tonsils, and it’s expansive system travels throughout the body to remove waste from every cell while helping to regulate the immune system.

The lymphatic vessels act like a giant drainage system for the body that needs to stay clear for it to work properly.  The lymph must flow freely to ensure that waste products and fluids do not build up in the tissues. Just like in your home if the drains are clogged in your toilet or sink, you can’t get rid of waste effectively—the same is true for your body. Stagnant lymph flow leads to waste and toxin buildup, weakened immunity, and can lead to a wide variety of health issues.

So, how do you know if you may be suffering from a stagnant lymphatic system? Almost every part of the body can be affected by poor waste removal in the lymphatic system. When your lymph drains become congested you may notice: 

• Itchy and dry skin
• Chronic Fatigue
• Bloating
• Breast swelling with each cycle
• Poor digestion
• Brain fog
• Swollen glands
• Weight gain
• Chronic sinusitis, sore throats, colds, or ear issues
• Cellulite
• Cold hands and feet

If you are experiencing symptoms of lymphatic congestion, it may be time to decongest your lymph system. 

Follow these daily habits and exercises to naturally decongest your lymphatic system for glowing skin, improved digestion, and overall health!

1. Move Your Lymph

The lymphatic system does not have a built-in pump like the heart, which propels blood through the circulatory system, where it gets oxygenated, filtered, and circulated. Therefore, the lymphatic system relies on the contraction and relaxation of the muscles and joints to move the lymph. Studies have shown the best form of exercise for your lymphatic system is a rebounder workout (bouncing on a mini fitness trampoline).  Consider this the most fun way ever to help get your lymph system moving! Bounce is more effective than other workouts for lymphatic drainage because of the effects of gravity and your body's muscle contractions while on the trampoline. The rhythmic tensing and relaxing of the muscles will wring out the tissues and propel fluid through the lymphatic channels. Getting a lymphatic drainage massage is also hugely beneficial. Lymphatic drainage massage helps circulate blood and lymph throughout the body to promote detoxification. Utilizing a next-generation infrared heated Roll machine (i.e. INSTAROLL) will greatly help to reduce fat tissue and the appearance of cellulite, provide relief from muscle tightness and speed up recovery, increase metabolism, and promote clearer, tighter skin along with improving your body’s immune function.

2. Detox your environment.
The lymph must deal with the body’s “waste products” that are produced internally like dead cells as well as toxins that are introduced from the external environment. Systemic inflammation creates congestion and swelling in the tissues, which impairs lymphatic flow. Oxidative stress damages the lymph vessels and breaks down their ability to effectively transport lymph fluid and wastes. It is, therefore, important to reduce your exposure to chemicals in food, air, personal care products, and water while increasing your intake of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients to prevent damage. Opt for an organic, anti-inflammatory diet filled with green leafy vegetables, cruciferous veggies, omega-3 fatty acids, and herbs and spices like ginger, turmeric, and garlic. Avoid processed additives, chemicals, and artificial ingredients.

3. Stay hydrated.
Lymph fluid is about 95 percent water and becomes thicker and less fluid when you are dehydrated. In fact, one of the most common causes of lymph congestion is dehydration. Stay well-hydrated by sipping warm purified water throughout the day to help keep your lymph flowing well. Avoid sugar-laden soft drinks, processed juices, sports drinks, and alcohol, which add an additional metabolic burden on the body as well as too much caffeine, which dehydrates the body.

4. Incorporate Raw Foods.

A sluggish digestive tract also congests the lymphatic system. Incorporating raw foods into your diet is another way to keep the lymphatic system healthy. The naturally occurring enzymes and bioflavonoids in raw fruits and vegetables help to break down toxic buildup and free radicals while fiber promotes regular elimination and cleansing of the intestinal villi to keep the intestinal lymphatic system healthy.

Takeaway: An effectively functioning lymphatic system is essential for overall health.  Try incorporating some of the above steps and let us know about your experience!