I find it hard to keep up with all the systems in my body. It gets scary knowing how many things can go wrong. However, the more you know about how your body functions, the better you become at keeping everything healthy. The lymphatic system is important because it rids your body of unwanted materials. It also transports a fluid called lymph which contains the white blood cells needed to fight infection. When this system isn’t working right, unwanted substances can build up in your body and lead to issues such as inflammation. That’s why it’s important to help your body drain your lymphatic system. Here are seven tips to keep your lymphatic system working at peak performance. (1, 2)

1. Keep Moving For Healthy Lymphatic Systems

A sedentary lifestyle keeps your lymphatic system from working. Since your system uses the contraction and relaxation of the joints and muscles to operate, when you exercise you help it work more efficiently. You provide enough oxygen to cells and tissues to send toxins to your liver and kidneys where they can be filtered and removed from your body. Any exercise is good, including laughter. (2)

2. Just Breathe To Stimulate Your Lymphatic System

Deep breathing also feeds oxygen to the blood and can improve lymph flow. Take the time to practice deep breathing throughout the day. Breathe in through your nose, hold it for four seconds and then exhale through your mouth for two seconds. You can increase timing to get better results. But take your time and don’t hold your breath too long! Do this two or three times a day. (2)

3. Lymphatic Massage

This is a special massage targeting the flow of lymph using pressure and rhythmic circular movements to help move it towards the heart. It allows for the drainage of waste and fluid, but it also feels wonderful. (2)

4. Lymphatic Systems Love Iodine Rich Foods

Iodine supports the lymph at a cellular level. Make sure you get enough iodine by taking a supplement or eating iodine-rich foods such as seaweed (nori, dulse, kelp), mushrooms, Himalayan salt, and beets. (2)

5. Dry Brush Your Skin

Dry brushing supports lymphatic flow by improving circulation. Doing this before your morning shower for about five to 10 minutes rids your body of toxins that build up overnight. Try to do it at least three to five times a week. Gently brush upwards on your tummy, chest, and neck towards your heart. Just be light-handed as the brush can be rough on delicate skin. (2)

6. Drink Plenty of Water For Your Lymphatic System

Chances are you do this already. However, drinking at least 1 liter of warm lemon water each morning and then two more liters throughout the day is a great way to cleanse your body. (2)

7. Enjoy More Red And Green Foods

Red foods including beets, pomegranates, berries, cherries, and cranberries provide phytonutrients to stimulate lymph. Green foods, then provide chlorophyll to purify the blood and cleanse the lymphatic system including spinach, kale, dill, cilantro, romaine, parsley, basil, arugula, collards, etc. (2)

If you can adopt even a few of these tricks into your daily routine, you can improve your lymphatic system function for improved health. (2)