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Your Lymphatic System: Movement, Hydration And Healthy Habits Matter

Your Lymphatic System: Movement, Hydration And Healthy Habits Matter
Your Body Has A Second Circulation': How To Keep It Healthy · NDTV

Your body has a system called the lymphatic system that works alongside your blood circulation.

It helps move extra fluid away from tissues and supports your immune system.

It also helps carry some fats from food.

Unlike blood, lymph does not have a heart-like pump to move it around.

Muscle movement and deep breathing help push lymph through its vessels.

Walking, stretching, swimming and avoiding long periods of sitting can support this process.

Drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet also help your body work normally.

Healthy people usually do not need special lymphatic detox drinks, cleanses or supplements.

Swelling that lasts, enlarged lymph nodes or repeated infections should be checked by a doctor.

Key facts

Main functions
The lymphatic system returns excess tissue fluid to the bloodstream, transports certain dietary fats and supports immune defence.
Movement mechanism
Lymph movement depends largely on muscle contractions, breathing and everyday physical activity rather than a central pump.
Helpful activities
Walking, cycling, swimming, stretching and other regular movement can support lymph flow.
Hydration
Adequate fluid intake supports normal tissue and fluid balance because lymph is largely made of fluid.
Diet
A balanced diet with vegetables, fruits, whole grains and adequate protein supports immune and tissue health.
Detox products
Healthy people generally do not need specialised lymphatic detoxes, cleanses, teas or supplements.
Warning signs
Persistent swelling, unexplained enlarged lymph nodes, recurrent infections or swelling in an arm or leg may require medical evaluation.

Quotes

Dr Chirag Tandon

Director of Internal Medicine at ShardaCare-HealthCity

“When we think about circulation, we usually think about the heart and blood vessels. However, the body also has another important transport network the lymphatic system, sometimes referred to as the body's 'second circulation.' Unlike the cardiovascular system, which is powered by the heart, the lymphatic system does not have a central pump. It relies largely on muscle movement, breathing and body activity to move lymph throughout the body.”
NDTV
“Unlike blood circulation, there is no routine need for 'lymphatic detoxes' or specialised cleanses. The body has its own mechanisms for maintaining lymphatic function.”
NDTV

Sources

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