Why Everyone Needs To Pay Attention To This Body System

You may have heard of the lymphatic system in connection with diseases such as cancer and lymphedema (swelling). What you might not know is that the lymphatic system is involved in a lot more issues that can compromise your well-being. See the list below.

The lymphatic system is a network of tissues, vessels, and organs that work together to move a colorless, watery fluid called lymph back into your circulatory system (your bloodstream).

Every day, about 20 liters of plasma flow through your body’s arteries and smaller arteriole blood vessels and capillaries. It delivers nutrients to the body’s cells and tissues, receives their waste products, and returns about 17 liters back to circulation. The remaining three liters seep through the capillaries and into your body’s tissues. The lymphatic system collects this excess fluid, called lymph, from tissues in your body and moves it along until it's ultimately returned to your bloodstream.

The main functions of the lymphatic system:

• Maintains fluid levels in your body: the lymphatic system collects excess fluid that drains from cells and tissue throughout your body and returns it to your bloodstream, which is then recirculated through your body.
• Absorbs fats from the digestive tract: The lymph system transports lymph (fluids) from your intestines that contain fats and proteins back into the bloodstream.
• The lymphatic system is part of the immune system: It produces and releases lymphocytes (white blood cells) and other immune cells that monitor and then destroy bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi — that may enter your body.
• Transports and removes waste products and abnormal cells from the lymph.

Signs and Symptoms of Possible Lymphatic Problem:

 (not a complete list)

• Painful or tender lymph nodes
• Skin appearance (varicose veins, spider veins, acne, color, temperature, blotching)
• Bloating or swelling (face, belly, extremities)
• Morning stiffness, tightness, soreness
• Bad breath
• Gut issues
• Chronic pain
• Chronic fatigue
• Poor Sleep
• Inability to lose weight
• Brain fog
• Red eyes/gray eyes

What you can do:

Follow along with a quick lymphatic reset here.