Why keeping our Lymphatics healthy matters!

Function of the Lymphatic System

1. Toxin Clearance: The lymphatic system helps clear out toxins, including lactic acid and cellular wastes, which are byproducts of metabolism and cellular activity.
2. Immune Defence: It plays a vital role in the body’s defence against infections and diseases by transporting lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells.
3. Fluid Balance: The lymphatic system helps regulate fluid levels in the body, reducing issues like puffy legs and face by draining excess fluids.
4. Nutrient Transport and Immunity: It also facilitates the transport of nutrients and contributes to a strong immune system by distributing immune cells throughout the body.

In addition to these functions, the lymphatic system influences metabolism, fat transportation, hormonal response speed, and recovery times after exercise, surgery, injury, or illness. Dr. Perry Nickleston, a health professional, suggests that inflammation, disease, and the majority of pain in the body may originate in the lymphatic system.

About Our Lymphatics

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that contain lymphocytes and other immune cells. They are found throughout the body, particularly in the chest, neck, abdomen, and pelvis. These nodes are interconnected by a network of lymphatic vessels, and organs such as the appendix, adenoids, tonsils, and parts of the digestive tract contain lymph tissue.

Signs of Lymphatic Imbalance

When the lymphatic system is out of balance, it can manifest in various ways, including:

• Joint, hand, and foot pain
• Itchiness
• Breast swelling
• Cellulite
• Chronic fatigue
• Swelling of lymph nodes
• Muscle aches and pains
• Sore throats
• Hormonal problems
• Haemorrhoids
• Weight gain
• Stress

Diseases Linked to Lymphatic Dysfunction

Common diseases associated with lymphatic system issues include:

• Lymphoedema: Swelling caused by lymphatic fluid buildup, often in the arms and legs.
• Lymphadenitis: Inflammation of the lymph nodes.
• Lymphomas: Cancers of the lymphatic system.
• Enlarged Spleen and Tonsils: These can be signs of lymphatic system problems.
• Osteoarthritis and Fatty Liver: These conditions may also be linked to suboptimal lymphatic function.

Understanding Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is a condition where any part of the body, especially the arms and legs, can experience swelling due to lymphatic fluid buildup. In Australia, around 300,000 people may have lymphedema at any time, and one in five women who have had breast cancer will develop lymphedema.

Lymphedema can be classified as either primary (inherited) or secondary (acquired). Secondary lymphedema often occurs after surgery or radiotherapy, particularly in those treated for breast, prostate, bowel, or reproductive system cancers. The symptoms include heaviness, tight skin, aching, and swelling in the affected area.

Pregnancy and the Lymphatic System

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to altered lymphatic drainage, particularly in the lower legs. Increased levels of hormones like progesterone and oestrogen can cause fluid buildup, leading to swelling, varicose veins, and muscle cramps. The growing foetus can also inhibit lymphatic flow from the lower extremities.

Lipoedema

Lipoedema is a disorder affecting hormone-dependent subcutaneous fat, often leading to an accumulation of fat in the arms and legs. This type of fat is resistant to weight loss and can block lymphatic drainage, potentially leading to lymphoedema.

What to Avoid for Lymphatic Health

• Diet: Avoid coffee, sugar, acidic foods, dairy, and processed foods.
• Chemicals: Steer clear of cleaning, pesticide, and beauty products with harmful chemicals.
• Alcohol and Drugs: Minimise the use of alcohol and unnecessary prescription drugs.
• Surgery and Tattoos: These can disrupt lymphatic function.
• Stress and Poor Sleep: Both can negatively impact lymphatic health.

What to Do for Lymphatic Health

• Hydration: Drink at least two litres of water daily.
• Exercise: Regular movement helps stimulate lymphatic flow.
• Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing to support lymphatic drainage.
• Lymphatic Massage: Consider using specialised techniques, like those demonstrated in lymphatic massage videos, to promote drainage. Use this lymphatic sequence using the special gloves: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2EqCD66uug&t=82s
  You can order these directly from me (I use them most days after a shower), or I can set you up to order these online at a discounted price.

Introducing the Glymphatic System

The glymphatic system, recently discovered, clears waste from the central nervous system. When it malfunctions, it can lead to the accumulation of toxins and inflammation in the brain, contributing to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injuries, multiple sclerosis, migraines, stroke, and glaucoma.

The glymphatic system is most active during sleep, emphasising the importance of quality sleep for brain health and the elimination of neurotoxic waste.

There are specific practitioner only products that has been recently released that specifically helps helps glymphatic clearance and supports sleep.

Maintaining a healthy lymphatic system is crucial for overall well-being, as it affects everything from immunity and metabolism to recovery and brain health. By taking steps to support your lymphatic and glymphatic systems, you can enhance your health and reduce the risk of related diseases.