Lymph Flow and How Your Immune System Depends On It
Today we're continuing our discussion of WHAT the immune system is and how it works.
Yesterday we discussed how your gut hosts about 70% of your immune system. But one factor we don't discuss enough is how it does NOT work alone.
There's another system...which I think is entirely UNDER-discussed....that supports your immunity:
Your Lymphatic System.
Have you ever noticed when you get sick, you have swelling and somewhat hard nodules just below your ears?
How your tonsils swell up and get puss filled bumps when you're infected with strep?
Or how everything feels like it just hurts to be touched?
This is a sign that you have a build up of toxins in your lymphatic system!
Your lymph nodes get clogged and prevent your immune system from working properly. Hence, everything FEELS infected.
See, your lymphatic system works like a waste removal service for your immune system - when it's blocked, your immune function suffers.
This system contains hundreds of lymph nodes that act as immune system command centers.
But what does this system do exactly?
It houses and transports immune cells throughout your body.
It filters out bacteria, viruses, and other threats.
It removes dead immune cells and waste byproducts left from fighting off infections.
And when your lymphatic system is congested?
Lymph nodes may become swollen...
Immune cells can't reach where they're needed...
Waste from immune battles build up...
And your body struggles to fight the good fight!
To keep your lymphatic system healthy, you've got to think in terms of 3 things: movement, hydration, and proper nourishment.
The lymph drainage depends on your mobility and physical activity.
If you're not moving, it's getting stuck.
If you're dehydrated, lymph fluids don't move as efficiently. Drink more water but also, keep your electrolytes high.
And because this system is designed TO support the detox process, it's important to keep a mostly clean diet to avoid overloading it with MORE toxins.
Especially when you're under the weather.
If you find yourself feeling achy and on the verge of a viral attack, try these simple steps to support better lymphatic drainage:
-Gentle neck rolls (activates lymph nodes at the base of the neck)
-Arm circles (stimulates lymphatic flow through the nodes at the collarbone and in the armpits)
-Deep breathing with stretches (supports immune cell circulation through the chest and groin)
-Dry brushing with soft circles, moving from the outer limbs in upward strokes toward your torso (aids in lymphatic flow from the limbs)
-Hydrate with hot lemon or lime water throughout the day (keeps lymphatic system flowing)
-Get some sun (helps the cells move toxins out and into the lymphatic system for optimal health)
So while it may be easier to just pop a pill and silence these symptoms, healing can be made more efficient by addressing the clogs that may be causing them.
You'd be amazed at how resilient your body CAN be when given the right tools.
*This article is not meant to treat or diagnose a disease and is not intended to replace medical advice.