Before we start talking about the ways you can maintain a healthy lymphatic system, it’s important to figure out what a lymphatic system is. Lymph is a colorless fluid that contains white blood cells. These cells play a key role in our immune systems. Lymph is found in many tissues, and has its own drainage system- the lymphatic system.
Many people know what a lymph node is. Sore throat and a cold are often accompanied by an increase in the size of cervical lymph nodes. This is a natural process that indicates that your immune system is fighting an infection. The fluid in your lymph nodes is cleaned by a certain type of white blood cell known as a lymphocyte.
Lymph is a magic substance that plays a huge role in your health. It brings bacteria, excess fluids, cancer cells, proteins, and fats to the lymph nodes for processing. The lymphatic system regulates the fluid balance in the body and plays a body role in lipid metabolism and the immune system. It affects infections, inflammatory diseases, metabolic diseases, and even cancer.
There are many conditions related to the lymphatic system that can impact our health. Oftentimes, they manifest themselves with an increase in the size of lymph nodes or fluid retention known as edema. These include lymphedema (swelling in the face, arms, legs, or abdomen) and lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes that can be detected during a physical exam). It’s possible that lymphadenopathy might even indicate cancer but the most common cause of lymph node enlargement is an infection.
Another type of lymphatic condition is called lymphangioleiomyomatosis which commonly affects young women. In this disease, the body produces muscle-like cells that uncontrollably grow in other tissues and organs. They impair the functioning of the lungs, brain, and other organs. You are probably wondering what you need to do to keep a healthy lymphatic system. Luckily, it is easy to maintain lymphatic system health. So, let’s look at them:
1. Consider dry brushing.
Dry brushing is a technique that improves the movement of the lymphatic system and helps eliminate toxins from the body more effectively. You simply need to buy a special brush and brush your body gently.
2. Stay active.
Following an active lifestyle is probably one of the best things you can do for your lymphatic system. When you move your joints and muscles, you increase lymph flow. This is one of the reasons why staying active is so important for your overall health.
3. Try manual manipulation such as lymphatic massage.
Manual manipulation therapies, for instance, lymphatic drainage massage can also help you improve your lymph flow. Lymphatic therapy performed by a skilled osteopathic physician can boost lymph and immune health. They can also lower regional fat mass and thickness in people with cellulite.
4. Eat a healthy diet.
To keep your lymphatic system strong and healthy, you need to eat a diet rich in colorful vegetables and fruits high in antioxidants. You should avoid processed foods, fast foods, and sugary foods and drinks. This will help your body maintain detoxification ability and lymph clean. Different bioflavonoids contained in those healthy foods can fight edema and improve your lymph flow.
As you can see, the lymphatic system is crucial for our health that’s why it is so important to keep it healthy. Be careful with your body and each tissue, organ, and system in it, as it can affect your future life making it whether happy or painful.
