Dr. Corinne: Staying Healthy by Keeping Your Lymphatic System Strong
Dr. Corinne Weaver : Oct 18, 2019
DrCorinneWeaver.com
The primary function of the lymphatic system is to protect the body against infection, bacteria, and cancer cells, as well as to keep fluid levels in the body balanced.
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In this article, I will be discussing the lymphatic system. This system is a critical part of the immune system and plays a vital role in protecting us from illness and disease-causing inflammation. In other words, the lymphatic system is the body's inner "drainage system." The network of blood vessels and lymph nodes carry fluids from tissues around the body into the blood and vice versa.
The primary function of the lymphatic system is to protect the body against infection, bacteria, and cancer cells, as well as to keep fluid levels in the body balanced.
So, what parts of the body make up the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is made up of a network of lymphoid organs, nodes, ducts, tissues, capillaries, and a network of lymphatic vessels.
Here's a breakdown of the lymphatic network:
LYMPH VESSELS: A system of vessels that run throughout the body, much like blood vessels.
LYMPH FLUID: A colorless fluid comprised of infection and bacteria-fighting white blood cells that runs throughout the lymph vessels.
LYMPH NODES: Small nodes within the network of lymph vessels that are responsible for filtering infection and bacteria, as well as working to activate the production of antibodies in the blood.
LYMPHOID ORGANS: The thymus, a gland situated behind the breastplate, is responsible for helping with T-cell production -a type of white blood cell responsible for fighting bacteria and infection. The spleen, an organ located in the upper left abdomen, is responsible for storing cells that work to filter the blood of infection and bacteria. The tonsils are located in the throat to fight off pathogens entering the body.
LYMPHATIC TISSUE: The tissue of the bowel produces cells that recognize pathogens and work to destroy them. Bone marrow, a tissue found inside the bones, produces defense cells that multiply and migrate to the blood to fight pathogens.
(National Center of Biotechnology Information, 2017)
The lymphatic system works similarly, as the blood that gets circulated throughout the blood via the blood vessels. Except, instead of carrying blood, the lymphatic vessels carry lymph fluid through the body. Lymph contains a high number of white blood cells called lymphocytes that work to target and destroy damaged or abnormal cells from the body.
According to Cancer Research UK, this works because, "as the blood circulates around the body, fluid leaks out from the blood vessels into the body tissues. This fluid carries food to the cells and bathes the body tissues to form tissue fluid. The fluid then collects waste products, bacteria, and damaged cells, as well as any cancer cells if present. This fluid then drains into the lymph system. The lymph then flows through the lymph vessels into the lymph glands, which filter out any bacteria and damaged cells."
Once filtered, the lymph leaves the glands and moves into larger lymphatic vessels to the thoracic duct at the base of the neck. Lymph is then released back into the bloodstream, free of any harmful infection or bacteria. The lymphatic system also helps to maintain fluid balance within the body.
The fluid that gets released from the blood vessels circulates throughout the body and enters the surrounding tissues. If it were not for the drainage provided by the lymphatic system, the fluid would build up in the tissues and cause swelling in the body!
The fluid loss (approximately 2 liters a day) would cause dehydration if the lymphatic system did not take it from the tissues, clean it, and recirculate it into the body (John Stoddard Cancer Center, 2017).
Were you aware of how the lymphatic system works to protect you?
You may have experienced a swollen lymph node or two before, which presents as a tender lump that swells but retreats to its small, painless state soon after. This is caused by a lymph node becoming inflamed as it works to remove infection or bacteria.
In most cases, inflammation in the lymph nodes is nothing more than an indication that your lymphatic system is doing its job. However, prolonged inflammation can sometimes be a sign of something more serious.
The most common diseases affecting the lymphatic system:
LYMPHOMAS: A type of cancer starting in the lymph nodes that multiplies to form tumors capable of spreading to other parts of the body.
HODGKIN'S DISEASE: Cancer of the lymphatic system.
EDEMA: Water retention from fluid build-up in the tissues that causes swelling.
TONSILLITIS: Infection of the tonsils resulting in swelling that often leads to removal.
LYMPHADENITIS: Inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by an infection of the tissue, typically in the throat.
SPLENOMEGALY: An enlarged spleen caused by a viral infection, causing severe swelling that can lead to rupture.
There are many signs of lymphatic fatigue that point to congestion in the lymphatic system with some symptoms, including:
- Bloating
- Swelling in your fingers
- Brain fog
- Sinus infections
- Digestive issues
- Chronic fatigue
- Getting colds often
- Feeling sore/stiff upon waking
- Cold hands and feet
(Functional Diagnostic Nutrition, 2017)
So, what can you do to reduce your risks of lymphatic fatigue?
Ignoring the health of your lymphatic system means you're more likely to deal with common illnesses and even long-term health problems.
Here are six ways to boost your immune system by supporting a healthy lymphatic system:
-Drink plenty of Water
-Exercise
-Reduce stress
-Dry brushing ( I did this video a couple of years ago )
-Diet
-Dress appropriately
Now for a closer look at each:
Water, the great life source, is essential for proper lymph fluid movement in the body. Without it, the body lymph in the body can slow, allowing waste to sit in the body rather than being cleaned and flushed.
Everyone's need for water is different based on body composition and activity. A good rule of thumb is to make sure urine maintains a light straw color, indicating proper hydration.
If getting enough water is hard for you, try adding lemon, berries, or even some fresh mint to your glass to enhance the flavor.
The lymphatic system relies heavily on the contraction of your muscles and joints to help it operate and move waste. If overwhelmed, the system may not work as well, and it may clog up -- leading to diminished immunity, fluid retention, pain, and fatty deposits.
The best exercises to increase lymphatic drainage are running, jogging, walking, stretching, and deep breathing.
Reducing the amount of stress you carry should always be a priority. Did you know that stress is the main reason people go to the doctor? This includes the health of the lymphatic system!
Here are some ways to help reduce stress for optimal lymph circulation:
- Good posture (a chiropractor can help)
- Stretching regularly
- Deep breathing exercises
- Pilates
Let's look at a great breathing exercise to help relieve stress-related congestion.
Before you get started with any breathing technique, it is essential to prepare yourself with a few relaxed breaths before and after each exercise. Start by doing just 30 seconds at a time until you feel ready to increase to longer increments of time.
Deep Breathing is great for calming the mind and nervous system.
Inhaling and exhaling through your nose, is very important. Try to make each inhale and exhale even, and take each breath a little deeper than the last as you feel comfortable.
THREE-PART BREATH: This breath is great for anxiety, insomnia, and stress relief.
Place one hand on your chest and the other on your navel. Inhale into your chest, then into your upper abdomen, and finally puff out your belly. Slowly release the breath in the same way, working backward from your belly, then your upper abdomen, then your chest. I wrote a book called Learning How to Breathe. You can grab your copy here.
Dry brushing aids the removal of toxins that have built-up on our skin and involves using a coarse brush to gently be moved along the skin in the direction of the heart. Here is a quick fun video I did a couple of years ago.
This technique boosts lymph flow by stimulating sweat glands and supporting circulation below the skin
You'll want to look for a brush with natural fibers when shopping for a dry brush. You can always find one online by searching: natural dry brush for the skin.
Once you have yours, try this method to get the softest, smoothest skin:
- Start at the feet and brush in an upward motion, covering each section up your leg with ten long, smooth strokes. To activate that lymphatic system, it is recommended that all strokes along the body be guided toward the heart or the center of the body.
- Repeat this process with the arms by starting at the hands and moving up toward the shoulders, brushing each section 10 times.
- For the torso and underarms, brush in a circular clockwise motion.
Note: Brushing too hard can cause the skin to turn red or sting. Your strokes should be smooth and soft. If the dry brushing is uncomfortable, you're doing it too hard.
According to Functional Diagnostic Nutrition, "clothing that is tight-fitting can reduce circulation throughout the body. Tight clothing can actually reduce and restrict the
movement of the lymphatic system, thus preventing detoxification.
Bras and tight-fitting underwear can constrict flow in areas where there are a highly concentrated number of lymph nodes. This can lead to an increase in the symptoms associated with toxin buildup in the body."
Of course, it is fine to wear tight-fitting clothing on occasion, but limit the time these items are worn. Consider changing your clothes when you get home from work into something more comfortable, or loose-fitting.
Are you in the practice of changing into something comfortable when you are at home?
Diet plays a significant role in how the body performs, and there is no exception when it comes to the lymphatic system. The most important thing to consider before beginning a new diet is knowing what to avoid.
Here are some foods to consider eliminating for optimal lymphatic health:
- Processed foods
- Bad fats
- Grains
- Meat
Instead, you'll want to focus on eating these foods:
- Vegetables (especially leafy greens)
- Healthy fats
- Fruits
- Nuts
Before we dive into some great recipes, let's first visit how to go about making these changes.
When making changes to diet, it's a good idea to have a strategy in place to help with the first few days as your body starts its detox. It's best to start any new diet routine on a weekend, or some time when you do not have too many obligations. This is helpful to reduce your exposure to the foods you are trying to avoid. It is also beneficial to have the downtime in case you feel the effects of sugar detoxification, which may result in headache, moodiness, intense cravings, or flu-like symptoms.
Once you feel able, moderate exercise is a great way to expedite the detox. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water!
So what's on the menu?
Sure, you've heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. The truth is, it is! Breakfast is your daily jumpstart - it is how you set the tone for the rest of your day, so starting with something nutrient-rich is the best way to go.
Here are some wonderful recipes from Eating Well online:
The best way to make sure you stay on track for lunch is to be prepared! The following recipes from Eating Well online are delicious, and can also be prepared the night before to cover those lunchtime cravings.
Romaine Wedges w/ Sardines and Caramelized Onions
Roasted Cauliflower and Potato Curry Soup
Think of how good you'll feel after trying one of these lunches over something packaged or processed!
With a little preparation and smart food buying, dinner does not have to be a stressor. Check out these delightfully delicious and easy recipes:
Orange-Sesame Salmon w/ Quinoa and Broccolini
Roasted Root Vegetables over Lentils w/ Greens
Eat more dinners like this, and you'll go to bed knowing that you took care of yourself!
Don't lose track of your objective when a snack craving hits. As with any other meal, the best way to achieve success is always to be prepared, especially for snacking!
Here are some wonderful snacks to have ready when the cravings hit:
Turmeric is excellent for its naturally occurring anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with inflammation in the body caused by stress and poor diet. Turmeric comes in capsule form, as an essential oil, or it can be consumed as a warm, nutritious drink.
Start fighting inflammation with this recipe for Turmeric Milk.
I hope you plan to incorporate some of these ideas to help your lymphatic system. If you want some more FREE healthy recipes... Click here. (Image: via Facebook-Dr. Corinne)
I am looking forward to Showing Up more in your life and Serving you Better!! Don't forget to Listen to the No More Meds Podcast and join the No More Meds Movement with me. What if food could be delivered to you as your medicine? Just think how our lives would be different! Subscribe for free to Breaking Christian News here
Keep Breathing,
Dr. Corinne Weaver
Email: Dr@DrCorinneWeaver.com
Website: www.DrCorinneWeaver.com
Below are the resources used to put this presentation together for you:
Axe, Josh, Dr. (n.d.). "The Lymphatic System: How to Make It Strong & Effective", 4/24/2018.
Cancer Research UK. (n.d.). "The Lymphatic System and Cancer", 4/27/2018.
Cespedes, Andrea. (2017). "How to Do a Lymph Cleansing Diet", 4/27/2018.
Eating Well. (n.d.), 4/27/2018.
Epicurious. (2016). "Golden Milk Turmeric Tea", 4/27/2018.
Functional Diagnostic Nutrition. (2017). "18 Signs Your Lymphatic System is Clogged and How to Get It Moving Again!", 4/27/2018.
Jockers, David Dr. (n.d.). "10 Ways to Improve Your Lymphatic System Function", 4/27/2018.
John Stoddard Cancer Center, The. (2017). "The Importance of Your Lymphatic System", 4/27/2018
Leonard, Jayne. (2016). "15 Ways To Boost Your Lymphatic System For Detoxification & Better Health", 4/27/2018
Macmillon Cancer Support. (2016). "What is the Lymphatic System", 4/27/2018
Moore, Tammy. (2012). "The Lymphatic System, Part 1", 4/26/2018.
Dr. Corinne Weaver is a compassionate upper cervical chiropractor, educator, motivational speaker, mother of three, and internationally bestselling author. In 2004, she founded the Upper Cervical Wellness Center in Indian Trail, North Carolina. Over the last 13 years, she has helped thousands of clients restore their brain to-body function. When she was 10 years old, she lost her own health as the result of a bike accident that led to having asthma and allergy issues that she thought she would always have to endure. Then, after her first upper cervical adjustment at age 21, her health began to improve thanks to upper cervical care and natural herbal remedies. This enabled her to create a drug-free wellness lifestyle for herself and her family, and she also enthusiastically discovered her calling to help children heal naturally.
Dr. Weaver was named one of Charlotte Magazine's "Top Doctors" in 2016 and is now a number-one internationally bestselling author to two books: Learning How to Breathe and No More Meds.
Upper Cervical Wellness Center is known for finding the root cause of health concerns through lifestyle changes, diagnostic testing, nutraceutical supplementation, and correction of subluxation (as opposed to just medicating the symptoms). The practice offers cutting-edge technological care at its state-of-the-art facility, including laser-aligned upper cervical X-rays, bioimpedance analysis (measures body composition), digital thermography (locates thermal abnormalities characterized by skin inflammation), and complete nutritional blood analysis, which is focused on disease prevention.