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What is The Lymph System and Why is it Important to My Heart?

When thinking of the circulatory system, what comes to mind? Likely the heart. But did you know that our bodies have another circulatory system that runs in conjunction with the cardiovascular system? 

While it doesn’t get nearly as much attention as the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system is just as important. The lymphatic system, or lymph for short, is a neighboring circuit that supports the circulatory system by destroying pathogens and removing waste in the body. Working in tandem, the two systems ensure that cells are supplied with nutrients and that fluid stays in the vascular system, where it belongs. 

The lymphatic and cardiovascular systems are co-dependent. One could not survive without the other. In fact, the human heart is drained by a small network of lymph nodes and vessels, ensuring that the heart stays strong and healthy. 

What does the lymph system do? 

The lymphatic system is a complex network of delicate tubes and glands throughout the body. From the Latin word lympha, meaning clear water, lymph is the colorless, watery fluid that flows through this intricate system. 

The primary role of the lymph system is to cleanse the body of infectious microorganisms and abnormal cells. Simply put, the lymphatic system is the body’s sewage system, removing waste and excess fluids that leak out of the blood vessels. The lymphatic system is essential for the optimal functioning of our immune system. 

This organized system is what keeps energy levels in the body high. By helping to remove toxins and deliver nutrients, the lymphatic system ensures that all cells have what they need for energy production. 

The four primary functions of the lymph system are: 

  1. Produces and transports white blood cells when needed for immune function, protecting the body from illness-causing invaders. 
  1. Collects and removes interstitial fluid from tissues and returns it to blood, helping to maintain proper fluid levels. 
  1. Absorbs fatty acids from the digestive tract and transports them back to the bloodstream. 
  1. Transports and removes cellular waste from the lymph, filtering out toxins from the body. 

What does the lymphatic system consist of? 

Similar to the circulatory system, the lymphatic system is a network of vessels and tissues. The lymph system also consists of many other parts, including: 

  • Lymphatic fluid – A collection of fluid and other material, such as proteins, minerals, nutrients, fats, and damaged cells. 
  • Lymph nodes – Approximately 500-600 lymph nodes are distributed throughout the body. These bean-shaped glands filter out unwanted viruses, bacteria, and fungi. They also produce and store white blood cells. 
  • Lymphatic vessels – These thin-walled tubes carry lymph away from tissues, returning it to the venous system through two collecting ducts. 
  • Organs – Several organs are involved in the lymphatic system, including: 
  • Spleen
  • Tonsils and adenoids
  • Thymus
  • Appendix
  • Peyer’s patches
  • Bone marrow – Located in the center of larger bones, the bone marrow produces white blood cells.

Cardiovascular system vs. lymphatic system

The cardiovascular and lymphatic systems are integral parts of the circulatory system, working closely together to deliver nutrients and oxygen through the body while removing waste. Although the two systems complement one another, there are some distinct differences between the two. 

The cardiovascular system uses the heart to pump blood through a closed network of vessels. On the other hand, the lymphatic system is an open system in which lymph passively flows from tissues into the lymphatic vessels. 

Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have a pump to help move fluid around. Instead, the pressure gradient to move lymph comes from movements, such as through our skeletal muscles and breathing. The contraction of muscles becomes the pump that moves lymph through the body, which is why activity is essential for healthy lymphatic flow. 

Finally, while blood circulates through the body in all directions, lymph only moves in one direction- towards the heart. 

Is the heart connected to the lymphatic system? 

The lymphatic system is connected to the cardiovascular system through the lymphatic vessels. In a healthy person, lymph gets returned to the bloodstream, thus avoiding swelling in the body. 

When lymph fluid moves normally, lymphatic vessels drain into two collecting ducts under the collarbone, the right lymphatic duct, and the left lymphatic duct, also known as the thoracic duct. These ducts then dump the lymph into the subclavian veins, where the pressure is low, allowing lymph to flow into the blood efficiently. The subclavian veins then join to form the superior vena cava, the large vein that returns blood to the heart. The lymph then makes its way to the heart. 

The heart has its own lymphatic vessels, mainly located in the epicardium and endocardium. Like other organs, the heart relies on the lymphatic system to drain fluid away from the heart. Studies have found that lymph vessels have different functions in different parts of the body, including the heart. 

Importance of a healthy lymph system for the heart 

A healthy heart requires a healthy environment. The lymphatic system’s job is to remove toxic waste from the body, thus ensuring that toxic build-up doesn’t impact the heart. 

Moreover, the lymphatic system ensures a healthy fluid balance in the body. If the lymphatic system is not working correctly, the heart must work harder to pump blood throughout the body. 

Without a healthy functioning lymphatic system, the heart is under more stress, which could lead to cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and heart disease. 

Three ways to keep the lymphatic system healthy

Unlike the other systems in the body, the lymphatic system does not get nearly enough attention. However, a healthy cardiovascular system is dependent on a healthy lymph system. 

The top three ways to keep lymph flowing freely through the body include: 

Move your body  

Since the lymphatic system does not have a pump, it relies on the movement of the musculoskeletal system to activate the lymphatic vessels. Lymph vessels exist throughout the body, most running up the legs, arms, and torso. Studies show that exercise helps to keep lymph flowing, thus reducing the risk of disease. 

Aim to move your body daily through walking, dancing, climbing stairs, hiking, and resistance training. Even while sitting down, easy-to-do calf raises can help keep lymph pumping. Another excellent exercise to improve lymphatic flow is rebounding. Simply jumping on a trampoline can increase lymph flow dramatically.

Breathe deeply 

While physical movement is an excellent way to keep lymph moving, breathing is another. Deep breathing exercises cause the diaphragm to move up and down, creating a pump for lymph to flow. Studies show that diaphragmatic breathing facilitates the movement of lymph through the bloodstream, thus increasing the elimination of toxins. 

Performing diaphragmatic breathing is easy:  

  • Sit comfortably, placing one hand on your upper chest and the other just below your rib cage. 
  • Breathe in slowly through your nose, feeling your stomach push your hand away from your body. 
  • Exhale through your lips, feeling your hand move back in with your stomach. 
  • Throughout this exercise, your chest should remain as still as possible. 

Dry brush

Aside from leaving you with glowing skin, dry brushing helps to release toxins and promote the movement of lymph throughout the body. The swift movement of a dry brush stimulates the lymphatic system. 

Using a high-quality dry brush, simply start at your feet and brush up toward the heart. 

Next steps

Unfortunately, we live in a very toxic world. Daily, we are exposed to chemicals in our homes, workplaces, and even the air we breathe. Thankfully, our lymphatic system is hard at work, eliminating these unhealthy toxins from our bodies. Keeping this system healthy is a key component of overall health. 

If you are concerned that your lymphatic system is not functioning optimally, consider a free 20-minute health coaching strategy call with a Natural Heart Doctor health coach. Together, you can discuss strategies to keep your lymph flowing freely and your heart pumping well. 

Eat well, Live well, Think well

Medical Review: Dr. Lauren Lattanza 2022

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About Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD, FACC

Dr. Lattanza Office Visit with Patient

As a Naturopathic Physician, I am trained to treat the whole person and get to the root cause of disease.

I went to Arizona State University where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a depth in physiology and minor in Spanish. After my undergraduate degree I was working on prerequisite classes towards medical school, which is when I came to learn that my values identified best with the principles of naturopathic medicine. I knew that I wanted to help patients identify the causes of disease and be able to offer treatments which would improve their health rather than simply treating symptoms.

I dedicated the next 4 years to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona where I attained my Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine. I served as Class President all 4 years, Board of Trustees – Student Trustee, spoke as the Club President for our branch of Toastmasters, and was voted by my peers and attending physicians to earn the Outstanding Leadership Award for the Class of 2020. Throughout medical school I took it upon myself to work alongside MDs, DOs, chiropractors, and functional medicine practitioners in addition to naturopathic physicians.

As a Spanish speaking student, I was able to volunteer with community clinics around Phoenix and provide free healthcare to low-income families. Due to this combined exposure, I came to find my passion in treating cardiometabolic and digestive disorders that are all too common, yet largely preventable. I took the opportunity to learn the broad spectrum of healthcare so I can ensure that I am able to provide my patients with the best options.

About Dr. Jack Wolfson DO, FACC

Dr. Wolfson Office Visit with Patient

Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, Amazon best-selling author, husband, father, and the nation’s #1 Natural Heart Doctor.

For more than two decades, more than one million people have enjoyed the warmth, compassion, and transformational power of his natural heart health courses and events.

Dr. Wolfson is the founder of Natural Heart Doctor Scottsdale, his heart health practice in Arizona, and Natural Heart Doctor, an online resource center with natural health information. Doctors from across the globe reach out to Dr. Wolfson for training and education in holistic health practices.

He has been named one of America’s Top Functional Medicine Doctors and is a five-time winner of the Natural Choice Awards as a holistic M.D. Dr. Wolfson’s work has been covered by more than 100 media outlets, including NBC, CNN, and the Washington Post. His book “The Paleo Cardiologist: The Natural Way to Heart Health” was an Amazon #1 best-seller.

Dr. Wolfson and his wife Heather have four children and are committed to making the world a better place to live. They provide for those in need (including animals) and support natural health causes through their philanthropic efforts.

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Our chiropractor is an expert at adjustments and holistic chiropractic care and works closely in conjunction with the other health care experts at Natural Heart Doctor.

Call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

IV Therapy

We use specially formulated natural vitamins and minerals that are injected into a vein to prevent or treat dehydration. Ideal for people in Arizona.

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Stimulate your body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being with acupuncture at Natural Heart Doctor.

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Health Coaching

Our health coaches use evidence based skillful conversation, clinical interventions, and strategies to engage you actively and safely in health behavior changes.

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Cardio Tests

We use the most advanced testing in the world to assess heart health and to identify the root cause of your health issues.

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Office Visits

Schedule an office visit with one of our cardiologists, holistic physicians, chiropractor, or health coaches.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’d like to receive an online second opinion from Natural Heart Doctor. What do I do next?

You can initiate a second opinion online through our website at any time. To begin, select the team member you’d like to speak with and open an account.

Click here for cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Lauren Lattanza. Get details.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Tonia Rainier. Get details.

Click here for  Natural Heart Doctor Health Coach.

Alternatively, you can email health@naturalheartdoctor.com. A member of our care team will help guide you through the process of starting a second opinion.

What is the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

The cost for most second opinions varies by team member. This fee includes information collection, a phone or video consultation, a second opinion from a Natural Heart Doctor specialist and guidance throughout the process from your personal Care Team at Natural Heart Doctor.

Cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson’s Second Opinion Fee is $1500.

Holistic Physician’s Dr. Lauren Lattanza’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Naturopathic Physician Dr. Tonia Rainier’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Note: We apply the Online Second Opinion Call fee as a credit to any future consultations with Natural Heart Doctor, should you choose them.

Will my insurance cover the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

Most likely, no. Most health plans do not cover online second opinions or consultations. You are responsible for the cost of our second opinion. Natural Heart Doctor cannot file a claim with your insurance carrier, nor can we provide a procedure (CPT) code for this service.

What is the timeline to receive an online second opinion?

We do our best to schedule your second opinion as quickly as possible. Typically, it takes 5 to 7 business days after your information has been collected to receive your phone or video online second opinion.

What information do you need in advance of our call?

Our office will send you a short questionnaire to complete and return. We DO NOT need your complete medical records.

How many questions can I ask the expert during our call?

You may ask a maximum of five questions. This is to ensure that the expert has sufficient time to devote to each question. All questions must be finalized before your online meeting.

What should I expect to receive once my second opinion is complete?

You will receive a summary of our discussion along with our second opinion. The second opinion will be in written form. After you have reviewed the second opinion, a Natural Heart Doctor clinician will follow up with you by phone to address general medical questions about the information provided in the second opinion.

What if I have follow-up questions for the expert after I have reviewed my second opinion?

If you have a clarifying question about an expert’s response to one of the questions in your second opinion, and the Natural Heart Doctor clinician is unable to address it, then you may request a follow up session for an additional fee. 

Is my medical and payment information secure?

Natural Heart Doctor is strongly committed to protecting the privacy and security of all our patients. Our website meets all federal requirements for protecting personal health information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). All financial transactions are processed by Natural Heart Doctor securely using industry standard payment processing tools.

I would rather visit Natural Heart Doctor for an in-person appointment. What should I do next?

If you would prefer an in-person appointment at Natural Heart Doctor instead of an online second opinion, please call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Can I schedule a follow up appointment with the specialist who provided my online second opinion?

Yes, we’re happy to help you on an extended basis. Our clinician can discuss options with you when presenting our second opinion summary.