br br br 1. Avoid (all) processed foods br br Cutting back on processed foods, especially ones that contain sugar, can lower the amount of toxins in your body. Try to reduce processed foods made with simple sugars and carbohydrates, or foods containing artificial flavouring. The less waste your lymphatic system has to filter, the more easily it will flow and clean your body. br 2. Drink (lots of) water br br One of the most common causes of lymph congestion is dehydration. Water, and only water, can adequately rehydrate the body. Your body needs water to stay hydrated and allow your lymph fluid to drain and flush out any toxins. Drinking lemon water compensates, hydrates, and replaces the lost fluids in the body, leading to prevention of dehydration. Drink half your body weight in ounces to ensure that you are properly hydrating everyday. br 3. Eat Real (and red) Foods br br A diet high in fruits and vegetables is capable of providing natural sources of nutrients, and antioxidants, which are needed to help prevent and reduce inflammation and oxidative damage in the lymphatic system. br Adding more raw fruits, vegetables, and fresh juices to your diet will provide powerful enzymes and acids to cleanse your lymphatic system. All red-staining foods are great lymph-movers. Berries, cherries, pomegranate, beets, and cranberries are all used as natural lymph moving and detoxifying agents. br 4. Exercise (every day) br br Exercise is one of the best ways to stimulate the lymphatic system. Regular exercise that involves jumping is the best way to keep your lymph system flowing smoothly. Although jumping up and down is the best way to stimulate lymph flow, any type of exercise will do the trick. While your muscles are moving, they massage your lymphatic system, which improves lymph flow. br 5. Support the Lymph (with herbs) br br A whole body cleanse with lymph support is essential at least twice a year. Alteratives, such as cleavers, red root and burdock perform a cleansing function and help the body eliminate harmful metabolic waste. This supports a detoxification that occurs in the lymph nodes, while decreasing any swelling and inflammation. A great option is the Laprinol herbal tincture by St. Francis. br 6. Dry brush (the Skin) br br Your skin rids nearly 14 of your toxins everyday. Dry skin brushing is an effective at-home treatment used to detoxify and support the lymph system . Brushing off dead skin cells rejuvenates the skin and allows toxins to move out of the body. Use a stiff brush or rough sponge making long brush strokes, starting with the feet and hands and always brushing upwards and inwards in the direction of the heart. This will encourage lymph fluid to flow effectively and efficiently throughout the body.