Part 3 of 3 in our Series on Lymphatic Inflammation
Part 3. How to Improve Lymph Flow
Move your body to move your lymph!
Unlike the circulatory system, which has the heart to pump blood, the lymphatic system has no pump. The flowing of our blood and the raising/lowering of our diaphragm as we breathe helps stimulate lymph flow, but muscular contraction and body movement are the primary methods of moving lymphatic fluid.
A sedentary lifestyle decreases lymph flow by a staggering 94%.
The accumulation of toxins and waste products may not only create lymphatic inflammation throughout the body, but also burden our immune system, weaken us, and make us more vulnerable to disease and cancer. Move your body to move your lymph and your bowels!
To help, learn about The Lymphatic System, How to Reduce Inflammation and:
Factors that increase lymphatic stagnation:
- Lack of body movement, prolonged sitting, chronic stillness
- Constipation, inadequate elimination
- Dehydration, which increases constipation too
- Consuming processed foods, junk food, fast foods, sugary drinks, unhealthy fats, refined flour and sugar can cause inflammation and create lymphatic system congestion.
- Among others
Ways to stimulate lymphatic flow:
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Deep breathing and muscular contraction stimulate lymph flow. Source: healthline.com[/twocol_one] [twocol_one_last]
- Move the body and move the bowels
- Adequately hydrate
- Breathe more deeply, less shallowly
- Exercise (brisk walking, gentle rebounding, yoga)
- Lymphatic massage, self-tapping, dry skin brushing, etc
- Herbs and herbal teas that promote lymph flow
- Hot/cold therapy, infrared sauna and acupuncture
- Among others
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Learn More
16 Ways to Activate Your Lymphatic System
Ten Ways to Improve Lymphatic System Function
Get more prevention education and tips at betterhealthforlife
Monitor your sources and levels of inflammation at thermogramcenter