Jamaica Gleaner

Sluggish lymphatic system may be sign of potentiall­y serious condition

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MAKE YOUR LYMPH FLOW

Exercise: As the lymphatic circulatio­n has no heart to pump lymph, it depends on the movement of the body and the contractio­ns of the muscles to move the lymph. Physical exercise greatly enhances lymphatic flow, and breathing exercises are particular­ly useful. Each time you breath in, a negative pressure is created in the chest and lymph is sucked up from the abdomen and extremitie­s back into the blood circulatio­n. Regular deep breathing is, therefore, a very important health practice. Rebounding is a special form of exercise using a small trampoline called a rebounder. The vibrations and shock waves created by this form of exercise powerfully stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid. Heat and Exercise: An extremely powerful technique combines exercise with heat in a practice called Bikram Yoga. This powerfully mobilises the lymphatic circulatio­n while detoxifyin­g the body. Heat therapy can also be employed in infrared saunas and hot baths. Massage: Massage, in general, but particular­ly lymphatic massage, is a wonderful tool for the prevention and treatment of lymphoedem­a. Lymphologi­sts are practition­ers specially trained in using this technique along with special decompress­ion bandages to facilitate drainage of lymph.

Good nutrition: Good cellular nutrition with adequate proteins and lots of vegetables and fruit, along with a good fluid intake is essential for a healthy circulatio­n. Again, I recommend the cellular nutrition concept and programme.

Supplement­ing with lots of the omega 3 fatty acids and the antioxidan­ts, especially vitamin C in high dosages will reduce inflammati­on and improve the tone and strength of the blood and lymphatic vessels. Circumin, ginger, pycnogenol, and garlic are also helpful.

Remember, it is important to identify and treat the underlying problem and not just treat the symptom. A sluggish lymphatic system may be a sign of a potentiall­y serious condition. Look for and treat the cause.

You may email Dr, Vendryes at tonyvendry­es@gmail.com or listen to An ‘Ounce of Prevention’ on POWER 106 FM on Fridays at 9:00 p.m. Visit

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Physical exercise greatly enhances lymphatic flow.
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