I don’t know about you, but I know I was not aware of something called the lymphatic system in my body. Sure, I completely understand that there are things working right under my nose that I am unaware of but not always that they have a name. Or that they are a common thing to think and worry about. If someone came up to me and started talking about the lymphatic system I would listen, feel slightly concerned for a moment and then go about my way because I don’t truly know what it is or what it does. Thankfully, when a question like that occurs our Smartfem team has someone to turn to! Dr. Liz Cruz and Tina Nunziato of Dr. Liz Cruz Partners in Digestive Health know the answers when it comes to treating your body well and understanding all it does for you.
According to the office of Dr. Liz Cruz Partners in Digestive Health, the lymphatic system is, “made up of long thin tubes, or vessels that connect to lymph glands/lymph nodes. There is a fluid that runs through these vessels and it’s called lymph fluid. The purpose of the lymphatic system is to help clear out foreign invaders/junk from the body.” Basically, it is a system running throughout your body that does the clean up when cells die, which happen often, or really anything that is harmful to your body. The question at hand however, that Dr. Liz Cruz Partners in Digestive Health want you do know, is how can we all keep this lesser known yet very important system in good shape? There are 5 ways to do this, and they all go along with the healthy lifestyle I am so in love with!
This list is taken directly from one of Dr. Liz Cruz Partners in Digestive Health’s newsletters, which you can sign up for here.
#1- Movement and Exercise: This is the only way to keep the lymph fluid moving through the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system doesn’t have its own pumping mechanism (like the heart), the only thing that keeps the fluid moving through the vessels is the pumping action from your muscles.
#2 – Drinking Water: If you’re not drinking a good amount of water during the day the fluid in your lymphatic vessels gets stagnant and doesn’t flow smoothly through the body.
#3 – Lymphatic Massage: This is different from a deep tissue massage. It’s actually a very soft touch, almost feels like you’re not getting any type of massage. There are therapists who specialize in this type of massage. You should get one done, but make sure you hydrate well because it’ll get things moving through your lymphatic system and if you’re toxic, you can potentially get sick after this.
#4 – Dry Skin Brushing: This is a powerful aid in stimulating your lymphatic system and helping it release toxins. The investment in dry skin brushing is small, you can find a high-quality brush for under $20. When brushing, always brush toward your heart. You can brush your entire body; start at your feet and work your way up your legs to your arms, chest, back, and stomach. Avoid brushing your face, genitals, or any areas with irritations or abrasions (including varicose veins).
#5 – Eats Fresh Foods: I can’t overemphasize the importance of eating healthy. As you feed your body good, healthy, food you are only making it easier on your body to get rid of toxins because you are limiting the amount of toxins entering the body. We actually inflict so much on our bodies when we don’t feed it well, we are responsible for so many of the toxins that are in our bodies today.
This fantastic list sums up everything you really need to know to get started learning and taking care of your lymphatic system. I think understanding the body and all it does on a daily basis is it something everyone should be more aware of. We have one body for our entire life so why not treat it with the respect it deserves?
