What is your Lymphatic System?

What can it do for you!

The lymphatic system is the most underrated part of our circulatory system. Our body contains about 50% more lymphatic fluid than blood, yet sadly many health-care practitioners rarely consider the critical role the lymphatic system plays in preventing disease and keeping us healthy.

The lymph system is the body’s primary waste elimination system and functions as the body’s primary means of immune defence. It contains over 600 “collection sites” called lymph nodes and has a network of collection vessels more extensive than the blood system.

As a circulatory system, optimal flow must be maintained within the lymphatic system. Unlike the blood, whose circulation is driven by the pumping of the heart, the lymph does't have its own pump. It is propelled by three means: the movement of muscles, the nerves which create subtle pulsations, and the fluid pressure within the system. Lymph fluid is cleansed by the liver, kidneys, and heart. It eliminates its toxic load through the elimination channels of the body – urine, bowel, skin and lungs.

The lymph fluid contains lymphocytes, these guys are like the original “Pacman” as they go about their work gobbling up all the garbage in our bodies and expelling it through the lymph system elimination channels. If the lymph system is congested, the lymphocytes can’t do their job and our bodies become a virtual junk yard.

The lymph node is an immune related organ, it’s role is as a filtration and purification station for lymph fluid and a place for disabling and destroying bacteria, toxins etc.

If conditions lead to sluggish lymph flow, fluid can concentrate in specific areas (oedema/swelling) and impaired function along the entire lymph system can be the result (congestion). When this state of congestion is long lasting, blockages can form and cause a backup in the flow of lymphatic fluid. Consequently, toxic cellular waste cannot effectively be released from the body as a whole or from specific areas such as injury sites and therefore the immune system may not function at its optimum. A good analogy is, where as healthy lymph should be a thin fluid like milk, in congested lymph it becomes like cottage cheese.

Some causes of lymphatic congestion are poor lifestyle such as inactivity and improper diet, infections, injuries and surgery (scar tissue and adhesions), emotional stress, environmental toxins, hormone imbalance, and the normal ageing processes.

When the Lymphatic System isn't working?

It becomes evident how poor lymphatic drainage can contribute to a wide range of dysfunctions and a lack of vitality.

An impaired lymphatic system often results in the following: • Auto-immune conditions • Oedema and excess water retention • Digestive complaints • Poor circulation • Loss of energy • Heart Disease • Colds, flu and sinus problems • Cellulite Blockages • Insufficient diet • Illness • Lack of exercise • Tight-fitting clothing, including ties, bras, underwear and pantyhose • Bumps, bruises and other injuries • Exposure to heavy metals, pesticides and herbicides • Impaired circulation • Food allergies or sensitivities • Surgery • Stress

What goes wrong?

• Some causes of lymphatic congestion are stress, chronic digestive imbalances, and iodine deficiency.

• Stress has been identified as a large cause of lymphatic congestion

• Chronic digestive imbalances like constipation and diarrhoea due to irritated intestinal villi are classic causes of lymph congestion. As the majority of the lymph in the body surrounds the gut (Gut Associated Lymphatic Tissues GALT), the quality of the villi are critical for proper lymph flow, detoxification, assimilation and immunity.

• Lack of movement. Because it doesn't have its own pump, it relies on movement to work efficiently.

• An unhealthy diet and lack of hydration.

• Iodine deficiency may also be a common cause of lymphatic congestion. Iodine protects us from a toxic environment and supports the lymph at the cellular level.

Why stimulate it?

• A healthy lymphatic system promotes overall wellness. An unhealthy lymphatic system can lead to many issues including a suppressed immune system, fibromalgia, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, aches and pains, disease, viruses, bloating and poor digestion.

• If your lymphatic system is sluggish, you are also more prone to cellulite, collection of fat deposits and obesity. This is why it's important to take care of your lymphatic system.

Treating the lymphatic system is an excellent prevention technique or may be used to enhance any other healing program.

How is your Lymphatic System?Take the Test

• Do you feel tired, run down, sluggish, stressed or suffer chronic immune disorders?

• Do you get lactic acid build up in your muscles after exercise?

• Do you suffer from recurring colds, infections, allergies or tonsillitis?

• Do you suffer from irritable bowel or constipation?

• Do you feel tired, run down, sluggish or stressed?

• Do you have poor circulation, aches and pains?

• Do you have cellulite, gain weight easily or find it hard to lose?

• Do you have tender breast or breast lumps?

• Do you suffer from fluid retention, swollen ankles, oedema or lymph oedema?

• Do you have lower back pain, arthritis or inflammation?

• Do you have post surgery swelling?

• Do you have strong body odour?

• Do you suffer from numbness or tingling in your arms or legs?

• Do you have breathing difficulties or snoring?

If you suffer from any of the above, The Lymphatic Clinic can help you to begin your journey to health, vitality and recovery.

Call us now or Book your appointment online here