Our body, along with every other living system, has to use nutrients and eliminate waste. Our lymphatic system is the half of the system that eliminates the waste. The lymphatic system and its extensive network of vessels help to clear the body from waste, damaged cells, cancer cells and foreign particles. This network helps our body to protect itself from the spread of infection and some diseases. This makes it a vital part of the immune system. In each lymph node our body is able to generate an immune response to different foreign particles. Our lymph nodes are jam-packed with great things, including B cells, T cells, dendritic cells and macrophages that help to keep us safe. But, what do all of these cells do?
1. B cells
-A part of our primary immune response. One of their biggest roles is to create antibodies and memory cells. This means that our body can remember this particular substance if it encounters it again
2. T cells
-Help other immune cells to breakdown foreign substances, infected or abnormal cells
3. Dendritic cells
–Signals that bad cells need to be destroyed and tells the B cells to create memory to that foreign particle
4. Macrophages
-Digest and eat up viruses, fungi, bacteria, parasites and other foreign particles
How do we activate and further support our lymphatic system?
1. Movement!
-Our lymphatic system gets pumped and moves when we move.
2. Drink plenty of fluids
-Ideal daily water intake is half your body weight in ounces. (Ex: 150lbs; aim to drink 75 oz of water each day)
3. Eat leafy greens
-kale
-spinach
-collards
4. Eat healthy fats
-nuts: almonds, pistachios, walnuts, cashews, pecans, brazil nuts, macadamia, hazelnuts
-seeds: chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds
-oils: avocado oil, sun-flax, sesame oil, coconut oil
-avocados
-fatty fish
-whole eggs
It’s important that our lymphatic system is able to work properly to help fight against foreign substances that we come into contact with. Our bodies are smart and have all of these special cells to create a strong defense system. As a vital part of our immune system, taking steps to support our lymphatic system will help to create the best possible environment for fighting infection. It’s impossible to avoid foreign invaders, but when you do, you’ll want your lymphatic system functioning at its best.
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