The human body is impeccably designed to naturally detoxify harmful substances. Numerous organs and systems of the body function around the clock to ensure that our bodies stay clean and healthy. Arguably the most important of these systems is the lymphatic system.
What Is The Lymphatic System?
Considered part of the circulatory system, the lymphatic system is the body’s drainage system. The lymphatic system works in conjunction with the cardiovascular system to deliver nutrients and extract waste from every cell of the body. Traveling through the lymphatic system is a clear watery fluid called lymph.
Lymph is derived from blood plasma that has been forced from the blood vessels. This fluid is rich in white blood cells and travels through a series of vessels and nodes to carry waste and toxins away from the tissues to be eliminated out of the body.
When the environmental toxins and malicious microbes we encounter on a daily basis find their way into our bodies they eventually end up in the lymphatic fluid to be excreted. As lymph flows through the system, the toxins it carries are deposited in the lymph nodes. White blood cells then flood into the lymph nodes to neutralize the foreign substances.
This is why the lymph nodes swell when we are ill. They are filling up with white blood cells that are battling toxic invaders!
Lymphatic Congestion
Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system does not have a pump to keep things moving. The flow of lymph is primarily induced by the contractions of muscles and the movement of the body. Therefore, it is common for lymphatic flow to become congested making it more difficult for the body to detoxify.
Excessive stress, poor diet, dehydration, infections, chronic toxin exposure, and an acidic body, can all contribute to lymphatic congestion.
Common symptoms of lymphatic congestion include: digestive issues, skin rashes, inflammation, bloating, headaches, sluggishness, brain fog, and excess mucus.
How To Decongest The Lymph
As the body’s drainage system, it is critical that the lymph be allowed to flow freely in order to effectively eliminate waste, toxins, and infectious invaders from the tissues of the body. Here are 3 all-natural strategies
Eat The Right Foods
Lymphatic congestion is often caused by over consumption of acid forming foods and indigestible rancid fats such as canola, soy, and vegetable oil.
That being said, there are also certain foods that can help stimulate movement of the lymph. Citrus, greens, and algae (found in Fermented Green Supremefood) support healthy lymphatic flow. Foods that have a deep red pigment, such as berries, pomegranate, and beets (found in Red Supremefood), are also especially effective lymph movers. Certain roots including dandelion, burdock, and yellow dock can be used for herbal tea that will aid in lymphatic system function.
Daily Movement Practice
Since the flow of lymph is propelled by musculoskeletal contractions, movement and exercise are also powerful lymph movers. Unfortunately, many of us are sedentary throughout most of the day, stuck at desks and in cars or sitting at tables and on sofas. This can cause lymphatic flow to stagnate. Even something as simple as going for a walk or spending a couple of minutes on a rebounder can boost the flow of lymph. Incorporating a few minutes of gentle stretching into your daily routine can open up the body and allow lymph to flow more freely.
In addition, regular massages can also help push things through the lymphatic system and clear out any congestion. Another option is to use a dry skin brush which not only exfoliates the skin but is also a powerful lymph mover.
Maintain Adequate Hydration
One of the most important factors in maintaining lymphatic health is ensuring sufficient hydration. This can be done by sipping on warm lemon water throughout the day. Try to drink filtered or spring water free of contaminants. If drinking reverse osmosis water, be sure to add minerals or a pinch of sea salt to the water to maximize hydration.
Implementing these lymph moving strategies will help you maintain proper lymphatic flow and allow your body to efficiently detoxify. This means that you can stay healthy and vibrant so that you are able to do the things you love and live your life to the fullest!
For expert guidance on navigating your detoxification process, you can join Dr. Colbert’s FREE 21-Day Detox.
References
Beets. Love my beets! They love me