What happens when you improve lymphatic drainage?

Author: Sterling Runolfsson  |  Last update: Wednesday, November 19, 2025

The Effects of Lymph Drainage. By manually stimulating the lymphatic system, you: Increase the carrying capacity of the lymph system, allowing it to process up to 10 times more fluid than normal. Increase the flow through the lymph nodes, filtering out waste products, dead cells and excess proteins from the tissues.

What does improving lymphatic drainage do?

Lymphatic massage may reduce swelling in your body and make it easier for your lymph nodes to get rid of toxins. Lymphatic drainage massage benefits may include: Immune system support. Reduced fluid retention.

How to know if lymphatic drainage is working?

People who use lymphatic drainage massages may notice that their swelling reduces. At the very least, swelling should not worsen. People can attend regular checks with a doctor to monitor whether this procedure works for them.

What happens to your body after a lymphatic drainage?

It takes energy (a lot of it) to detoxify our body, and you may feel tired for a day or two after your first appointment. Your lymphatic system is working faster and harder than it was before you came in for your appointment, and it'll stay stimulated for the next 24-48 hours.

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.

9 Essential Ways to Improve the Circulation of Your Lymphatic System

What comes out of your body during lymphatic drainage massage?

In fact, your lymphatic system acts almost like a garbage disposal, helping your body filter out waste and bacteria. Lymphatic drainage massage, which is sometimes called manual lymphatic drainage, or MLD, involves gently massaging areas of the body to help move lymph fluid to an area with working lymph vessels.

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.

Do you lose weight after lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage massage may improve the appearance of cellulite but will not get rid of it completely. The most likely cause of weight loss immediately following the massage is the loss of excess fluid and potential bowel movement that occurs afterwards.

What does poor lymphatic drainage feel like?

The main symptom of lymphoedema is swelling in all or part of a limb or another part of the body. It can be difficult to fit into clothes, and jewellery and watches can feel tight. At first, the swelling may be soft and easy to push in, leaving a dent, and may come and go.

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.

Can you overdo lymphatic drainage?

Yes, it's possible to overdo lymphatic massage. While lymphatic drainage massage offers numerous benefits, more is not always better. Overdoing it can lead to bruising and swelling, especially if the massage is too aggressive or the pressure too high.

What does lymphatic build up feel like?

The main signs and symptoms of lymphoedema are: swelling in your arm, leg or other affected area — clothes, shoes or jewellery may seem tighter than usual. a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected area. aching and discomfort in the affected area.

What are the negative side effects of lymphatic drainage?

Risks of Lymphatic Drainage Massage
  • Heart problems.
  • Kidney failure.
  • Blood clots.
  • Infection.

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.

How do I know if my lymphatic system is clogged?

Lymphedema signs and symptoms include:
  • Swelling of part or all of the arm or leg, including fingers or toes.
  • A feeling of heaviness or tightness.
  • Restricted range of motion.
  • Recurring infections.
  • Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)

Where does lymphatic fluid go when it drains?

Functioning almost like a sponge, the lymphatic system absorbs excess lymph fluid from the body's organs and returns it to the blood stream. In a healthy body, the lymphatic channels from the liver and mesentery drain toward the thoracic duct, which is the main lymphatic vessel responsible for lymph drainage.

Does drinking more water help lymphedema?

As a result, some patients with lymphedema believe that reducing water intake can reduce swelling and fluid accumulation. While this is a fair assumption, it actually has the opposite effect. Drinking plenty of water can help manage lymphedema symptoms by promoting the body's filtration and elimination functions.

Can lack of lymphatic drainage 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.

Where does fat go after the lymphatic system?

The resulting mixture of lymphatic fluid and fats – a milky-white substance known as 'chyle' – is carried through the lymphatic network and into the largest of the lymphatic vessels – the thoracic duct and thenceforth directly into the heart. It is only at this point that the fats we have eaten enter the bloodstream.

Does lymphatic drainage get rid of cellulite?

Long-Term Benefits

Regular lymphatic massages may improve circulation and reduce cellulite appearance over time. Many people report feeling lighter and more energetic after treatments. Incorporating these practices into daily life encourages better lymphatic health.

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.

Do you pee out lymphatic fluid?

These vessels route the fluid through the lymph nodes, which house immune cells that kill off abnormal cells and other harmful substances. The lymph fluid then drains back into the blood stream, which flows through the kidneys where waste is removed and passed out in your urine.

What are the symptoms of a backed up lymphatic system?

Swelling or accumulation of fluid (lymphedema).

It can also happen when your lymph nodes have been removed to treat a condition like cancer. With lymphedema, fluid most commonly builds up in your arms or legs. It can be very mild or quite painful and disabling.

Why do I smell after a massage?

In conclusion, it is not uncommon to notice a smell on your skin after receiving a massage. Factors such as the type of oil used, sweating during the session, and poor hygiene practices can all contribute to any odors present.

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