Tagged with 'lymph-nodes'

The lymphatic system doesn’t receive a lot of attention, but it’s responsible for some important things happening in our body.

What is Lymph?

Lymph is a clear, colorless fluid containing white blood cells that defend against germs.

What is the Lymphatic System?

The lymphatic system includes the lymph vessels, lymph nodes, tonsils, spleen, and thymus gland.

There are 600 to 700 lymph nodes in the human body that filter the lymph before it returns to the circulatory system.

Facts About the Lymphatic System

• The blood dumps waste toxins from the intestinal tract into the lymphatic system via the liver. 

• The lymphatic system may become overworked and congested, and if this happens, its filtering and neutralizing functions dramatically decrease. This results in a build-up of toxins in the system, an increased risk of inflammation, and reduced immune response.

• When toxins are produced within the body faster than the body can process and release them, the body suspends those toxins in fat and interstitial spaces in an attempt to protect the organs.

• This toxic buildup results in soft and connective tissue inflammation and excessive buildup of lymph fluid which contributes to fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and a multitude of immune system disorders.

• The lymphatic system assists in draining off excess fluids and protein left behind by capillary circulation activity, preventing tissues from swelling.

Nutrition Tips to Keep the Lymphatic System Functioning Well

1. Avoid Food Preservatives and Additives. Neither are good for any part of our body, and with the lymphatic system, they cause swelling and fluid retention.

2. Avoid monosodium glutamate (MSG). MSG is an "excito-" and "neuro-toxin" identified by leading neuroscientists because of its degenerative and deadly effects on the brain and nervous system. Neurons are over-stimulated to the point of exhaustion and cell death.

Common terms for MSG: Anything Hydrolyzed or Autolyzed, Natural Flavor/Flavorings

Common ways MSG is added through food: Seasonings and Salts, Commercial Soups and Sauces, Bouillon/Broth/Stock, Canned Food, Processed Food. Examine ingredients on the nutrition label to avoid MSG.

3. Squeeze juice of a ½ fresh lemon into a cup of warm pure water and drink every morning.

4. Include fresh vegetables every day.

5. Eat potassium-rich foods in your diet.

6. Drinks Lots and Lots of Water—8 to 10 glasses every day. Your body needs hydration to keep the fluids running! Avoid drinking from plastic. Choose stainless steel or glass containers instead.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RDN

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods