What should you eat before a lymphatic drainage massage?

Author: Leatha Auer V  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Have a light meal before your appointment- nothing too heavy, buttery or salty. A big part of the lymphatic massage focuses on the abdominal area in order to activate the inguinal lymph nodes, so a heavy, fatty meal might block those passageways and ultimately impact the results of the massage.

What to eat before lymphatic drainage massage?

Try to eat only a light meal a few hours before your massage. Avoid greasy or heavy foods that can make you feel sluggish. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. This will make it easier for the therapist to reach the areas they need to work on.

What should you avoid before a lymphatic massage?

Don't Eat a Big Meal

A full stomach will make it more difficult to drain the toxins from your abdomen and the organs around that area. Although it can be difficult not to eat before an appointment, the health benefits you'll receive from your lymphatic massage will make the fasting worth it.

What foods help with lymph drainage?

Increase Intake:
  • Fruits and vegetables. Eat a variety of colors, in particular dark greens like blueberries, spinach, and broccoli.
  • Lean protein (as long as you don't have significant kidney problems) like chicken, salmon, and tuna.
  • Beans, seeds, oats, low sodium nuts and nut butter.

What to do before lymphatic massage stomach?

This guide offers practical tips on how to prepare for a lymphatic massage, covering what to do before, during, and after your session.
  1. Understand the Benefits of Lymphatic Massage. ...
  2. Consult with a Professional. ...
  3. Stay Hydrated. ...
  4. Avoid Heavy Meals. ...
  5. Wear Comfortable Clothing. ...
  6. Plan Post-Massage Care.

10 Foods To AVOID For Swelling, Edema And Lymphedema | Dr. Melissa Gallagher

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.

Do you have diarrhea after lymphatic massage?

Can lymphatic massage cause diarrhea? It is possible to get mild diarrhea as your body after an initial Lymphatic Massage as the body is expelling toxins and waste into the kidneys and liver. This is especially true if you have IBS. It is not common, but not a cause for alarm.

How can I speed up my lymphatic drainage?

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 vitamin helps drain lymph nodes?

Vitamins that support the lymphatic system include, vitamin A, C, E, and B-6. Common herbs that also help include goldenseal, echinacea, and poke root.

What can block lymphatic drainage?

The most common reason for lymphatic obstruction is the removal or enlargement of the lymph nodes. Other causes of lymphatic obstruction include: Infections with parasites, such as filariasis. Injury.

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.

Should you fast before lymphatic drainage massage?

Make sure you eat very little or nothing on the day of your massage. A full stomach will get in the way of your masseuse giving you the best and most effective lymphatic drain. When your stomach is full, and the massage isn't done properly, then the aim is forfeited.

Why do I feel so bad after lymphatic massage?

Flu-like symptoms such as mild fever, body aches, or general discomfort can occur after a lymphatic drainage massage. This is often due to your immune system kicking into high gear as it responds to the sudden release of toxins. These symptoms should subside within 24–48 hours.

What not to do before lymphatic massage?

Avoid lotions and oils: It's best to avoid using lotions or oils on the skin before the massage, as they can interfere with the therapist's ability to perform the massage. Drink water: Drink water before the massage to help hydrate the body and promote the flow of lymph fluid.

How quickly do you see results of a 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.

How should I sleep to help my lymphatic drainage?

Sleep on your left hand side

In holistic medicine the left side of the body is the dominant lypmphatic side so sleeping in this position allows your body to naturally take pressure off lymph drainage from the heart and spleen.

What drink is good for lymph nodes?

Medications can often provide relief, but natural remedies, such as basil, apple cider vinegar, and chamomile tea, may help treat swollen lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs within the body. They are responsible for fighting infections and removing toxins.

Which vitamin detoxes the body?

B Vitamins

B8 (inositol) and B9 (folic acid) are helpful in treating deficits that relate to dietary habits and substance-related changes in the digestive track. B vitamins – especially niacin supplements – have cleansing properties that help to quickly remove toxins introduced during drug use.

Is banana good for the lymphatic system?

Foods high in Vitamin B6 help with the production of lymphocytes, which help the immune system stay strong and equipped to fight off infection. Consume foods like bananas, salmon, fortified tofu, and sweet potatoes.

What can I eat to drain my lymphatic system?

Natural foods like dark green vegetables, ginger, citrus fruits, flaxseed, and garlic are ideal for lymphatic cleansing.

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)

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 drainage?

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 is the disadvantage of lymphatic massage?

Few people have negative reactions to lymphatic massage. But some people develop side effects like fatigue, headaches or nausea. If this happens, let your healthcare provider know. They can tell you how to reduce your risk for these complications.

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