If you check our website, you will notice that we have many articles dedicated to the lymphatic system which is quite logical because this system is very important for our overall health.
The lymphatic system has one-two main goal – to eliminate toxins from all bodily systems and to distribute white blood cells wherever they are required to combat infections. In case the lymphatic system is a little bit slow, the body doesn’t get all the support it requires to remain in shape.
There are certain things that each of us can do, to improve the work of the lymphatic system and it seems that exercise is one of the best ways to achieve this.
Jumping on a trampoline is probably the best workout to make this system move properly once again.
People can also opt for a massage designed for lymphatic drainage or to practice dry brushing. So, if you are looking for efficient techniques for moving lymph then you should definitely try them.
However, making lymph fluid move inside and out of our brain is more complicated even though it is very important.
The Glymphatic System Keeps The Central Nervous System and Brain Safe From Toxic Waste
A few years ago, science discovered the glymphatic system. This system is focused on one thing – the removal of waste that accumulates in the central nervous system and the brain. The reason why it took so long before we became aware of this system is its small size and its location.
So, the glymphatic system is here to eliminate toxins flush out proteins accumulated in the brain, and provide lipids, glucose, and amino acids that our brain requires to work in a proper way.
If this system is not working properly, people can experience some serious cognitive issues including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, ALS, Huntington’s disease, and degenerative brain disease caused by reoccurring head trauma known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy.
This means that the healthy state of the lymphatic system is crucial for mental and physical health. A blocked or slowed system makes all cognitive functions slower and weaker and after a while, people are unable to handle their moods too.
The Glymphatic System and Sleeping
Scientists have determined that the glymphatic system is active only during the night when people sleep. So, the position in which we sleep and the quality of sleep, have a direct impact on the quality of work of the lymphatic system.
A scientific study conducted by the experts of Stony Brook University and revealed in the reputable Journal of Neuroscience was focused on the work of this specific system in lab rats during their sleep. Scientists have concluded that sleeping position is directly affecting the removal of waste in and out of rats’ brains.
It turned out that rats that were asleep with raised heads had minimal fluid movement. On the other hand, rats that slept on the left or right side and with proper support for their head have the optimal movement of fluids.
The conclusion is clear – the most efficient way to sleep is on the sides and if possible without any type of pillow. In this way, you will be able to provide optimal glymphatic system movement and preserve the health of your brain.
Even though sleeping in this way may be a little bit difficult for some people, the truth is that the benefits that come from sleeping like this make this practice worth trying. You should try this for at least several days and check the results.
Via David Wolfe | NIH
