Three-Day Lymphatic Cleanse To Keep You Healthy All Year Long

The lymphatic system is a vital, yet often overlooked, part of the body's immune system. Its main role is to act as a "drain," transporting a fluid containing white blood cells to fight infections and remove waste, such as bacteria, heavy metals, and other toxins. A sluggish or congested lymphatic system can compromise your immune response and lead to various health issues.

Signs of Lymphatic Congestion

When the lymphatic system isn't working properly, fluid can build up in tissues, a condition known as lymphedema. Other signs of congestion include:

• Swelling in the arms, legs, or small joints (e.g., rings becoming tighter)

• A feeling of heaviness or restricted motion

• Pain or discomfort

• Morning stiffness and soreness

• Bloating and dry, itchy skin

• Mental fogginess and fatigue

• Cold hands and feet

Main Causes of Lymphatic Congestion

According to alternative health practitioners, three primary factors contribute to a clogged lymphatic system:

1. Stress: Chronic stress can lead to chemical imbalances that impact lymphatic flow.

2. Chronic Digestive Imbalances: The majority of the lymphatic tissue is located around the gut. Poor gut health can impair the lymph's ability to cleanse and support immunity.

3. Iodine Deficiency: A lack of iodine can cause a lymph blockage.

Three-Day Lymphatic Cleanse

This seasonal cleanse, based on a vegetable broth, is designed to help detoxify and rejuvenate your lymphatic system.

Ingredients:

• A variety of organic vegetables, including zucchini, celery, green onions, parsley, mustard greens, turnip greens, cabbage, green peppers, spinach, lettuce, broccoli, carrots, and red and/or gold beets.

• Filtered water.

Instructions:

1. Wash the vegetables and, without cutting or scraping them, place them whole in a large pot.

2. Add a couple of gallons of filtered water and cook on low heat for two hours with a lid on.

3. Let the liquid cool, then strain out the vegetables. You will be using the vegetable broth for the cleanse. Save the cooked vegetables for Day 3.

4. Day 1: Drink three 8-ounce glasses of the vegetable broth, twice a day (before lunch and dinner).

5. Day 2: Drink three 8-ounce glasses of the broth before breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

6. Day 3: Drink three 8-ounce glasses of the broth before breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Eat the saved cooked vegetables with your meals.

While on the cleanse, you should:

• Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and food allergens like dairy, wheat, and soy.

• Limit coffee, alcohol, and sodas.

• Eat plenty of lightly steamed cruciferous vegetables.

• Use healthy oils like extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil.

• Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily.

• Engage in regular exercise, relaxation, and get sufficient sleep.

More Tips for a Healthy Lymphatic System

• Lemon Water: Drink a glass of warm water with lemon or lime first thing in the morning.

• Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins.

• Lymph-Moving Foods: Eat red-staining foods like berries, cherries, pomegranates, beets, and cranberries.

• Lymph Drainage Massage: Consider visiting a certified massage therapist for lymphatic drainage.

• Saunas and Detox Baths: Use saunas or take detox baths to help your body eliminate toxins.

• Stress Management: Find effective ways to manage stress, such as meditation.

Lymph Cleansing Herbal Infusion

A regular herbal infusion can also help promote proper lymphatic drainage.

Ingredients:

• 2 parts calendula

• 2 parts cleavers

• 1 part mullein

Instructions:

• Place the herbs in a small saucepan and cover with cold water.

• Heat slowly and simmer, covered, for 20-45 minutes.

• Drink 2-3 cups a day for 2 to 3 weeks.