Immune Strength and your Lymphatic System
The strength of your immune system is directly related to the wellbeing of your lymphatic system. A compromised immune system is a direct result of a sluggish lymphatic system. So, what is lymph fluid exactly? Everyone talks about blood and going for blood work, yet we never hear about lymph.
Our cells bathe in two fluids – blood and lymph. The role of blood is to deliver nutrients to the cells, whereas the lymph (a clear fluid) is responsible for eliminating waste from the cells. Unlike blood that is pumped by the heart and lungs, the lymph has no pump. The lymph is moved only by muscle contractions: the nerves that create subtle pulsations and the fluid pressure within our system. The more we move and exercise, the more efficient our lymphatic system is at eliminating waste.
Lymphatic vessels extend throughout the entire body. They are part of the immune system and play a major role in the body’s defense against infection and cancer. Did you know that there are forty-five pints of lymph as compared to about fourteen pints of blood in the average adult? Why? Because we need to eliminate three times more than we eat. Lymph tissue organs include tonsils, appendix, spleen, breast tissue, and thymus.
While our elimination organs contribute to a sluggish lymphatic system, other causes may be responsible: life stresses, environmental toxins, heavy metals, chemicals, inflammation, infections, injuries, bruises, traumas, food allergies, poor diet, lack of exercise, hormonal imbalances, structural misalignment, and genetic predisposition. Even unexpressed emotions such as anger, fear, or resentment can affect our lymphatic system. While attending a Tony Robbins seminar, I heard him say, “Five minutes of anger surpasses our immune system for five hours”
How do you know if your lymph is congested? Pay attention to sudden weight gain, fatigue, facial swelling, dark circles under the eyes, dry sallow looking skin, edema, cellulite, constant headaches and of course frequent infections.
To optimize lymph flow, eat a plant-rich diet, exercise daily, stay well hydrated, and supplement wisely with the support of a health care practitioner.