The lymphatic system is a structure consisting of lymph nodes, the thymus gland, spleen and lymph vessels, designed to neutralize and eliminate toxic waste from your body. Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have a super strong pump, such as the heart, to transport fluids throughout your body. To keep lymph fluid flowing, exercise regularly, practice deep breathing, massage or dry brush your body and drink plenty of water. A lymph detox diet may also help improve lymph circulation. If you are experiencing disorders of the lymph and immune system, consult your doctor.
Lymphatic System Function
An article on the Women to Women website highlighted the importance of the lymphatic system, saying that it is responsible for filtering and eliminating toxins from cells and tissues within your body. Your lymphatic system is part of the immune system, and when it's overloaded with toxins, your immune strength diminishes. Food sensitivities, viral infections, skin disorders, GI infections, chronic fatigue and depression can occur as a consequence. A lymph detox diet helps remove excess toxins to improve the function of your lymphatic system, kidneys and liver to prevent certain illnesses and disorders.
Significance of a Detox Diet
Detox diets generally consist of herbs, raw vegetables, fruits and fruit juices. MayoClinic.com questioned the safety and need for detox diets in an article, saying that the liver and kidneys are fully equipped to remove most toxins. Excessive consumption of processed and junk foods, caffeinated beverages, a lack of exercise, alcohol and smoking could overload and stress the body's systems, in which case, a lymph detox may serve as useful. Consuming organic fresh vegetables, fruits and juices for around ten days could counteract the negative affects of a nutritionally deficient and toxic diet and lifestyle. However, sticking to a healthy balanced diet maintains lymphatic health, while providing detox benefits
Effects
A lymph detox diet eliminates toxins, while nourishing your body's cells and tissues, which as an article on the Women Fitness website explained, is vital for the health and efficiency of the lymphatic system and liver. Nuts, seeds, salads, complex carbohydrates such as brown rice and lean protein sources like eggs and fish are rich in nutrients such as magnesium, iron, selenium, and B vitamins. These strengthen the liver and enhance lymphatic function.
Selections
Vegetables are packed with minerals and vitamins to nourish cells and tissues, while supporting the detoxification process. Organic produce reduces exposure to toxic chemicals and pesticides. Choose dark green vegetables like broccoli, seaweed, kale, spinach and cabbage. These are high in antioxidants, to boost your immune system and improve your overall health. Wash vegetables thoroughly before consuming to remove all traces of residue. Cranberry juice helps eliminate toxins from the body and prevent urinary tract infections. Low glycemic foods like fruits and whole grains are absorbed by your body at a slower rate, stabilizing blood sugar levels while supporting the function of your lymphatic system.
Style
Raw vegetables retain all of their nutrients and are generally recommended as part of a detox diet. You can also stir fry your vegetables with olive oil or steam them lightly adding onions, garlic, ginger and turmeric to enhance digestion and detoxification. The Detox Safely website described the herbs echinacea, goldenseal and dandelion root as being useful for detoxification. These can be taken in the form of teas or supplements.
Considerations
MayoClinic.com warns of the dangers of strict detox diets lasting up to ten days, saying they run the risk of resulting in dizzy spells, dehydration, fatigue and nausea. It's important to drink plenty of filtered, purified water to flush toxins from your body, stay hydrated and avoid these symptoms. Always consult your doctor before partaking in any detox program over an extended period.
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