Want to Get Rid of Cellulite? Love your Lymph!
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By Stephanie Wills
“Yes! I definitely want to get rid of my cellulite! I’ve had enough of these little dimples on my thighs and bum; but what on earth is lymph?” 

What is Lymph?
Lymph is a clear to yellowish watery fluid which is found throughout the body. It circulates through bodily tissues and cells picking up fats, bacteria, toxins, and other unwanted materials. These substances are then filtered out through the lymphatic system (a system of organs including the spleen, thymus, tonsils and lymph nodes). This process is called lymphatic drainage. 
cellulite
Now what has this got to do with cellulite? Well, don’t worry we’ll get to that part in a minute. First let’s clarify what cellulite is exactly…

What is Cellulite?
Other than a woman’s worst enemy, cellulite is the accumulation of fats, proteins and other waste products that have not been excreted from the body efficiently. Normally these unwanted substances would be carried out of the body via the wonderful lymphatic system, however, when the flow of lymph is sluggish, a build up of toxins occurs and cellulite results! Oh no!

So How Do We Prevent a Sluggish Lymphatic System?
Well first of all, unlike the cardiovascular system which has its own pump (the heart) to circulate the blood, the lymphatic system has no such mechanism to aid in its flow. Therefore, the movement of the lymph is dependent on muscle contractions, good circulation and pressure changes during breathing… In other words, a healthy lifestyle ensures adequate lymphatic drainage which equals no cellulite! 

Here are a few tips to get your lymphatic system back on track:

1. Jump!
Bouncing up and down, for as little as 5mins a day, on a mini trampoline (called Rebounding) is one of the most effective exercises for circulating lymph fluid throughout the body. This then enables metabolic wastes and toxins trapped in the lymphatic fluid to move more easily into the bloodstream, out the body and away from your thighs!

cellulitedryskinbrush2. Dry Skin Brushing 
Dry skin brushing is another great way to help kick start the lymphatic system. It stimulates the lymph canals, which helps detoxify the blood and reduce the toxic build up that can cause cellulite. Simply brush the body, with a brush of natural fibers, from the extremities (legs and arms) towards the heart. All it takes is five minutes before your bath or shower. Easy!

3. Massage
A lymphatic drainage massage (as well as being a real treat!) is a great way to stimulate the opening of the lymph vessels and thus increase the volume of lymph flow. As lymph flow is increased, blockages are removed, swelling is reduced and damaged lymph vessels are able to begin healing and rejuvenating.

4. Water
The lymphatic system depends on a constant supply of fluid, so it's very important to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep it functioning at its best. Purified or filtered water is the best choice… and no, alcohol, tea or juice doesn’t count in this equation. Sorry!

5. Diet
fruit_and_veggie_cocktails- Eat more raw! Acids and enzymes in raw fruit and vege are powerful lymph cleansers, especially on an empty stomach. A few lymph-friendly foods include: onions, garlic, ginger,   avocados, sprouts, seaweeds like kelp, wheatgrass juice and other vegetable juices, citrus fruits (especially lemon and grapefruit), apple cider vinegar, bitter foods like radish, parsley, seeds (chia, sunflower and pumpkin) and raw nuts (walnuts and almonds). 
- Reduce your salt intake! A high-sodium diet can contribute towards cellulite formation. 
- Avoid preservatives, artificial sweeteners, refined grains, excess sugar, chemicals and processed foods; all of which put strain on the lymphatic system.
- Eat loads of fiber-rich foods help to remove toxins from the body and reduce cellulite. 

6. Reduce Your Toxic Load: Inside and Out!
As well as being mindful of what goes inside your body, it’s also important to pay attention to what you put on the outside. Your skin is extremely absorbent; therefore make sure you avoid unnatural skin care products that contain chemicals, preservatives, parabens and/or artificial ingredients. 

7. Supplement
supplements- Omega 3 fatty acids. Healthy fats are necessary for the proper function of the lymphatic system as well having excellent anti-inflammatory properties to help get rid of cellulite. Make sure you choose a pharmaceutical-grade fish oil high in the active ingredients: EPA and DHA.
- Cleavers. Is a wonderful herb that greatly enhances the function of the lymphatic system; especially its capacity to deal with toxins. It also helps treat inflammation and swollen glands, purifies lymph, decreases congestion and encourages proper lymphatic drainage. (Avoid using cleavers if you suffer from diabetes or have diabetic tendencies)
- Dandelion Root is an excellent start to getting rid of cellulite. It helps release trapped fluid and flush toxins from the body as well as support the lymph glands and give the entire lymphatic system a good cleanse. 
- Burdock. This herb helps to eliminate waste in the body by relieving lymphatic congestion and thus promoting the flow of lymph. It is also a wonderful natural anti-biotic, antiseptic, and antifungal, detoxifying herb.
- Echinacea. Cleanses the lymphatic system and helps reduce enlarged lymph nodes. 

8. Breathe
Like exercise, deep breathing promotes the movement of fluid through the lymphatic system while providing it with fresh oxygen. Both yoga and Pilates are excellent ways to learn how to breathe properly. 

cellulitenomoreCellulite Be Gone!
Get that lymphatic system back into shape and your body will be able to flush out those nasty toxins from your thighs and buttocks! Once blood flow is restored to the affected areas, damaged tissue can be rebuilt and you’ll be well on your way to getting rid of cellulite once and for all!

For any more information regarding supplementation and/or recommended dosages come visit us at Lifestyle Health or email steph@lifestylehealth.co.za