The body houses at least nine systems, one of which is the lymphatic system. Generally, the lymphatic system is not well talked about in schools and hospitals, but the truth is- the system is responsible for you being alive.
The lymphatic system consists of lymphatic vessels, tissues, and organs whose primary function is to remove the lymph from tissues and direct it to the bloodstream. The system is important for several reasons.
One, the lymphatic system is a subset of the immune system that regulates the fluid level and ensures that it is distributed between the tissues and the blood.
Also, the system fights infections, and in some cases, it may be used as a diagnosis for infection. Due to these dual functions, some experts have classified it as a part of the circulatory and immune systems.
With these life-saving functions, it is important that it functions at the optimum level and food happens to be one of the recipes that play an influential role in this.
Here are the healthy foods for the lymphatic system:
1. Water
You must have been wondering if water is a kind of food; well, it is. The liquid substance hydrates your system at every point in time.
Anatomically, the lymphatic system contains more than 90% water; being dehydrated for long will dampen its function, increase the thickness of the lymph fluid, and increase its susceptibility to various diseases.
In fact, dehydration is a known leading cause of lymphatic diseases. Thus, it is imperative to stay hydrated as often possible.
2. Leafy Greens
Generally, vegetables are great for the body, but green leaves are a special class of food that detoxifies and cleanse the lymphatic systems of any dirt or toxin.
Green leaves like spinach, broccoli, kale, and others contain chlorophyll, a substance responsible for its body-benefiting actions.
Also, most of the leaves have a high water content, so they hydrate your lymphatic system and also reduce the lymphatic fluid’s thickness.
Most leafy greens are rich in antioxidants, and consuming leafy greens also helps to fight the growth of lymphatic cancer or lymphoma. Although lymphoma has not cure, there are ongoing lymphoma clinical trials to help find a treatment.
3. Seeds and Nuts
One of the functions of the lymphatic system is to rid the body of bad fats and body wastes. For this to go smoothly, the system requires a sufficient amount of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which are mostly obtained from food.
Seeds such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds are high in essential fatty acids, which are important for maintaining the integrity of the lymphatic vessels.
They also contain anti-inflammatory properties and can help in reducing swelling in the lymphatic system.
On the other hand, nuts have anti-inflammatory activities and promote the removal of wastes products from the body.
4. Ginger
Ginger is a source of a chemical named gingerol. The chemical discourages lymph node swelling by mopping up free radicals.
Also, ginger contains essential oils, a substance with a pronounced anti-microbial activity.
However, you must consult a certified aromatherapist before using the oil.
Other herbs and spices such as turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, green tea, black pepper, and cardamom are good for the lymphatic system.
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and warming properties. It can help improve circulation and may aid in the detoxification process of the lymphatic system.
5. Cranberries
They play an influential role in ensuring that your lymphatic health is preserved. Usually, the lymphatic system absorbs and transports fat out of the body.
Cranberries make this function easier by providing an environment that propels the continuous breakdown of fats.
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
They are similar to other red fruits and vegetables that are recommended for lymphatic health, such as cherries and raspberries, because they contain nutrients that support lymphatic function
6. Legumes
Legumes are another healthy group of foods that are good for the healthy lymphatic system. Legumes are rich in protein and zinc, two nutrients that are essential for boosting the immune system.
The stronger your immune system, the more your body is able to fight infections and preserve the wellbeing of your lymphatic system.
7. Fruits
Eating vitamin C-rich fruits can help improve your lymphatic health, as they can help prevent infections and strengthen your immune system.
Healthy fruits for the lymphatic system include guava, lime, pineapple, oranges, watermelon, grapefruit, and lemon.
Bottom Line
The lymphatic system is an important system in the body. It helps protect the body from diseases and balances the fluid in your body. There are certain healthy foods for the lymphatic system, such as cranberries, ginger, legumes, and leafy greens.
Drifting a bit from food, tight clothes, especially bras, could impair lymph flow, contributing to the development of breast cancers in women.
