Ever feel bloated, foggy, or run-down, and can’t seem to figure out why? Those random symptoms might not be so random. They can be signs of a sluggish lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system is often referred to as the “garbage disposal” or “sewage system” of your body.1 It filters fluid, toxins, and waste and sends them to your bloodstream for elimination. However, certain factors can make the lymph system slow down. When it backs up, fluid and waste can build up. This can cause swelling, weaken your immune system, and even affect your skin health.
The good news is that there are plenty of natural ways, like a lymphatic drainage massage, to get your lymphatic system moving again. Keep reading to learn 10 signs of lymphatic stagnation and simple ways to restore the flow.
Lymphatic System 101
Your lymphatic system is a key part of your immune and circulatory system. It consists of a network of lymph vessels, nodes, and organs, including the spleen, thymus, tonsils, and bone marrow.2,3 Together, they move a clear, watery fluid called lymph throughout your body.
This lymph fluid carries white blood cells that fight infections, along with proteins and nutrients your cells need. As it flows, it picks up toxins, waste, and excess fluid from your tissues. This waste is filtered through your lymph nodes. From there, it enters your bloodstream and is then cleared by your liver and kidneys.
Why Your Lymphatic System is Important
The lymphatic system often gets overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in your health. Here are three of the biggest lymphatic system functions:
- Balances fluid levels. Your lymphatic system collects excess fluid from your tissues and returns it to your bloodstream. That’s why poor lymphatic drainage can lead to puffiness or swelling.
- Fights infections. Your lymph system produces and circulates white blood cells, known as lymphocytes. These defend your body from viruses, bacteria, and other harmful invaders.
- Absorbs fats. The lymphatic system also aids digestion. It collects fat-soluble vitamins from your small intestine and moves them into your bloodstream. This helps your body absorb fats better.
The lymphatic system is also a key player in your body’s detoxification process. It filters out waste and toxins before they reach your liver and kidneys.
That’s why it’s best to give your lymph system some love before jumping into detoxes, cleanses, or protocols. Think of it like a “pretox.” It preps your body so detox can be smoother and more effective.
Symptoms of a Sluggish Lymphatic System
As mentioned, the lymphatic system is like the “garbage disposal” of your body. It filters toxins and waste and helps remove them from your body.
But just like a garbage disposal gets backed up from time to time, the same is true for your lymphatic system. And when your lymph gets clogged, waste and fluid can build up in your tissues. This can cause inflammation and weaken immune function.
And if your lymph stays sluggish for too long, your body may start to send some signals:
Here are 10 signs of lymphatic stagnation:4,5
- Swelling or bloating
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
- Puffy ankles or hands
- Headaches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Joint or muscle pain
- Chronic sinus infections
- Skin issues (e.g., rashes, dryness, acne)
- Cellulite
What Causes Lymphatic Stagnation?
A sluggish lymphatic system doesn’t just happen overnight. Certain lifestyle factors and health issues can disrupt lymph flow and lead to congestion.
Common causes of a weak lymphatic system include:
- Sedentary lifestyles, inactivity, or frequent sitting
- Acute or chronic infections
- Surgeries (especially breast cancer treatment)
- Injuries
- Toxin exposure
- Poor hydration
- Tight clothing
- Chronic stress
When these factors pile up, it can make your lymph system work overtime. That’s when symptoms may start to show up. Luckily, getting your lymphatic system moving again is easier than you think.
How to Improve Lymphatic Flow
Supporting your lymphatic system doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, intentional habits can make a big difference in getting your lymph moving.
I’ve already shared 10 simple ways to keep your lymphatic system healthy in a previous article. But here are a few of my favorite strategies to help you get started:
Move your body
Unlike your cardiovascular system, your lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump. Instead, it depends on muscle movement to keep lymph circulating. That’s why physical activity is one of the best ways to prevent lymphatic congestion.
But you don’t need to hit the gym or do intense workouts. Even gentle activities like walking, yoga, and stretching can help improve lymph flow. Short on time? Try squeezing this 10-minute lymphatic exercise routine into your day.
Drink more water
Drinking plenty of water is essential for healthy lymph. Poor hydration can make lymph become thicker and move more slowly. This can make it harder for your body to clear waste. To prevent this, aim to drink at least two liters of water a day to keep your lymphatic system healthy.
Try dry brushing
Dry brushing is a technique that many use to exfoliate their skin. Yet it’s a simple way to stimulate your lymphatic system, too
It involves brushing dry skin with a natural bristle brush, using light strokes toward the heart. This boosts lymphatic circulation, helping fluid move more freely. New to this practice? You can learn more about dry brushing here.
Consider lymphatic support supplements
As a functional medicine doctor, I often use homeopathic remedies with my patients to support lymphatic drainage. These formulas are extremely gentle and designed to work with the body, not against it. Often, they can help detox protocols go much more smoothly.
These remedies can be extremely useful for people who react strongly to supplements or who struggle with sluggish detox. Since they’re so gentle, they often give the lymphatic system the extra nudge it needs, without overwhelming the body.
Get a lymphatic drainage massage
One of the quickest ways to boost your lymphatic system is to get a massage. But not just any massage – a lymphatic drainage massage.
Lymphatic drainage massage is a special technique that’s designed to improve lymph flow. It uses light, rhythmic strokes in a specific order towards your lymph nodes. This stimulates lymphatic flow, helping your body clear out toxins and waste.
Lymphatic drainage massage is especially helpful for reducing swelling after surgery. But it’s also a great tool for optimizing detox. If your lymphatic system feels sluggish, this type of massage can help get it moving again.
Boost Your Lymph Flow with Lymphatic Drainage Massage in Orland Park, IL
Noticing swelling or other signs of poor lymph flow? Lifestyle habits like movement and hydration are good places to start. But if you feel like your body could use extra support, lymphatic drainage massage can help.
At Anchored in Health, our talented massage therapist is trained in this specialized technique. If you’re in the Chicago area and suspect your lymph system is sluggish, we’re here to support you.
Ready to experience the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage for yourself? Follow these steps:
- Contact us with questions.
- Book your first lymphatic drainage massage here.
- Get your lymphatic system moving and start feeling better!
Other Health & Wellness Services Offered at Anchored in Health in Orland Park, IL
At Anchored in Health, we provide a variety of holistic services to help you feel your best. This includes functional medicine, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and the Shape ReClaimed program. We also provide functional assessment tools like genetic testing, thermography, and Vibrant Wellness testing. Whether you’re looking to relieve pain, ease stress, or get to the root of stubborn health issues, we’re here to support you. Live in Chicago and ready to take the next step toward better health? Reach out to us today!
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.
Reading this blog does not establish a doctor-patient relationship between you and Anchored In Health or any of its practitioners. Reliance on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk.
