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| THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM AND ILLNESS |
| The lymphatic system is a complex drainage system that circulates throughout the body and filters toxins and foreign substances, which can create damage to the body. The lymph system is strongly effected by the type of food we eat, how we cope with stress, exercise and also our liver function. | |
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| Foods high in trans-fatty acids which include oil that is hydrogenated, cooked at too high of a temperature, or microwaved and margarine tend to clog the lymphatic system because the liver cannot eliminate these fats via its normal pathways. Hence, much of the fats will be stored in the lymph system. Oils such as coconut oil, ghee, and butter remain stable at a high temperature of 375 degrees and seame oil, olive oil, and almond oil remain stable at 325 degrees. Oils such as flax seed oil, canola, oil, soy oil should not be heated, but only used in condiments and salad dressings as they remain stable at no greater than 120 degrees. |
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| Beneficial foods for the lymphatic system include fruits and vegetables high in minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Essential fatty acids, omega 3 and omega 6, come from raw nuts and seeds, dark green leafy vegetables, and deep ocean fish. Whole grains, which contain fiber, minerals, and vitamins A and E, are protective of essential fatty acids. These foods allow the lymphatic system to filter and clear toxins and open the pathways of detoxification. |
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| Sugar can also reduce lymphatic flow in that excess sugar is converted to fat in the body. Processed sugar is also a feeding ground for bacteria, fungus and viruses to proliferate and make the body more susceptible to colds, inflenza and more serious diseases. |
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| The work of Candace Pert in her book, "Molecules of Emotion" describes how our response to stress also affects the cells of our lymphatic system. Receptor sites for peptides found in the immune system are also found in the higher centers of the brain and the nervous system. Hence, if a person is constantly worried, or angry or pushing their nervous system to work harder, their immune system, including the lymphatic system may become overwhelmed and unable to fight off bacteria and viruses which can result in illness. |
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| Exercise in a form that is comfortable to a person can assist in the pumping action of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is most effective when it is in constant flow. Deep breathing, massage, and hydrotherapy, alternating hot and cold water also enhance the flow. |
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| Signs of congestion of the lymphatic system include excessive mucous, no appetite in the morning or feeling hungover from the food eaten the night before. Having a difficult time waking up in the morning without stimulants or a constant feeling of sluggishness throughout the day can also be related to the congestion of the lymphatic system. |
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| A vital lymphatic system is one of the keys to a strong immune system and the prevention of colds and influenza. |
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| © Scottsdale Natural Medicine &
Healing Clinic, LLC latest revision 10.23.2004 |
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