Can sluggish lymphatic system cause weight gain?

Author: Marie Lehner DVM  |  Last update: Friday, July 11, 2025

Yes, in three ways: (1) uncontrolled lymphedema causes the accumulation of excess fluid, (2) advanced lymphedema (Stage II / II) causes abnormal fat to develop in the affected limb, and (3) weakened lymphatic drainage in otherwise healthy limbs encourages local adipose tissue to resist calls to breakdown fat.

Can poor lymphatic drainage cause weight gain?

Fat metabolism also slows when lymphatic drainage weakens

This means that not only does advanced lymphedema promote abnormal fat accumulation, but early sub-clinical lymphatic drainage deficiency can promote the storage of fat.

What are the symptoms of poor lymphatic drainage?

Symptoms of lymphoedema
  • an aching, heavy feeling.
  • difficulty with movement.
  • repeated skin infections.
  • developing hard, tight or thickened skin.
  • folds developing in the skin.
  • wart-like growths developing on the skin.
  • fluid leaking through the skin.

Will a lymphatic cleanse help you lose weight?

Lymphatic massage can support weight loss by reducing water retention, improving circulation, and promoting detoxification. While it doesn't directly burn fat, it helps the body function more efficiently by flushing out excess fluids and toxins, making it a useful complement to a healthy diet and exercise.

How to tell if your lymphatic system is sluggish?

10 Symptoms of lymphatic congestions:
  1. Fatigue.
  2. stiffness.
  3. muscle and joint pain.
  4. bloating.
  5. retaining fluid.
  6. breast swelling during your cycle.
  7. headaches.
  8. weight gain.

The role of the lymphatic system in fat metabolism

How can I speed up my sluggish lymphatic system?

There are other ways to pamper your lymphatic system, too, including:
  1. Deep breathing. Breathing slowly and deeply can help move fluid through the lymph vessels and nodes. ...
  2. Physical activity. Exercise helps move fluid throughout the body. ...
  3. Dry brushing. ...
  4. Swimming. ...
  5. Tap your skin.

What is the best drink for lymphatic drainage?

Here are our top picks for the best teas to keep your lymphatic system flowing beautifully:
  • Yaupon Tea. Yaupon tea, a unique herbal tea made from Ilex vomitoria, is a fantastic option for lymphatic drainage. ...
  • Ginger Tea. ...
  • Chamomile Tea. ...
  • Peppermint Tea.

How to remove fat from the lymphatic system?

Liposuction: Once lymphatic fluid spills into your surrounding tissues, it can cause inflammation and stimulate fat stem cells to grow. Your surgeon removes this extra fat caused by lymphedema. Liposuction for lymphedema is typically an outpatient procedure with a very short recovery time.

How long does it take to see results from lymphatic drainage?

Usually, some results will be noticeable immediately after your facial lymphatic drainage massage however the fluid will begin to properly drain around 24 to 48 hours post massage. For each individual client, the rate of lymphatic drainage can differ and therefore each individual will notice different results.

Is coffee bad for your lymphatic system?

Alcohol and caffeine could also function like diuretics. They both could dilate the lymph tissue and cause more swelling, and as a result, exacerbate the lymphedema. Don't adopt a low-protein diet. Consumed protein has no connection with the protein in the lymph fluid.

What is the life expectancy of someone with lymphedema?

Lymphedema, while presenting challenges, is not a direct threat to life expectancy. With early detection, comprehensive management strategies, and ongoing support, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. It is essential to dispel myths, address underlying causes, and adopt a proactive approach to self-care.

Do you poop a lot after lymphatic drainage?

Possible side effects of lymphatic drainage massage can include: Increased urination/bowel movements: after the massage, the lymph waste will need to be removed from the body. This leads to an increase in urination and bowel movements, as these are the methods the body uses to eliminate lymph waste from the body.

Why are my legs so fat compared to the rest of my body?

Lipoedema can make your bottom, thighs, lower legs and sometimes your arms look out of proportion with the rest of the body. In early-stage lipoedema, you may have bigger legs, a narrow waist and a much smaller upper body. You may have a large bottom, thighs, and lower legs, but your feet are not usually affected.

What comes out of your body during lymphatic drainage massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage is a form of gentle massage that encourages the drainage of lymph nodes and the movement of lymph fluids around the body. It can help relieve symptoms of lymphedema. The fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove waste and toxins from body tissues.

What is the fastest way to cleanse your lymphatic system?

Dry brushing involves gently rubbing the skin with a body brush. The lymphatic system runs close to the skin, so stimulation from the brush keeps it flowing well. Since it only takes a few minutes to dry brush just before you shower or bathe, this is one of the fastest ways to cleanse your lymphatic system.

What is the best lymphatic drainage tool?

The best products for lymphatic drainage, at a glance:

Best Dry Brush With Handle: Goop Beauty Dry Brush, $25. Best Gua Sha for Body: Skin Gym Sculptural Body Gua Sha, $52. Best Handheld Dry Brush: OSEA Body Brush, $28. Best Jade Gua Sha: Mount Lai The Jade Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool, 29.

Can a poor lymphatic system cause weight gain?

Yes, in three ways: (1) uncontrolled lymphedema causes the accumulation of excess fluid, (2) advanced lymphedema (Stage II / II) causes abnormal fat to develop in the affected limb, and (3) weakened lymphatic drainage in otherwise healthy limbs encourages local adipose tissue to resist calls to breakdown fat.

What can I drink to drain my lymphatic system?

Increase Water Intake

Staying Well hydrated is one way you can cleanse your lymphatic system naturally. Dehydration (results from not enough water) can lead to impaired lymph drainage.

What does skin look like with lymphedema?

With severe swelling, the lymph fluid can drain through small breaks in the skin or cause blistering. Skin changes. In some people with very severe lymphedema, the skin of the affected limb can thicken and harden so it resembles the skin of an elephant.

Does lemon water drain the lymphatic system?

One of the most common causes of lymph. congestion is dehydration. Add lemon to increase cleansing and draining effect. Lemon is a stellar ingredient to stimulate liver and digestive function while aiding the lymphatic system.

What is the FDA approved lymphatic drainage device?

Ballancer®Pro is an FDA-approved compression therapy* system designed to provide various therapeutic benefits to the body.

What is the best anti-inflammatory diet?

If you're looking for an eating plan that closely follows the tenets of anti-inflammatory eating, consider the Mediterranean diet, which is high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, fish, and healthy oils.

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