October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and everyone from yogurt companies to professional athletes is going pink to support women’s health. Thanks to these campaigns, women are more aware than ever of the importance of early detection through self-exams and mammograms. But something is missing from the conversation: How do we keep our breasts healthy in the first place? Imagine if more women knew how to prioritize breast health. We’d be addressing issues before they even start. The good news is that supporting your breast health is simpler than it sounds. This month, I’ll walk you through easy, effective ways to care for your breasts and set the stage for long-term wellness.
What Is the Lymphatic System and How Does It Affect Breast Health?
One of the keys to healthy breasts is a healthy lymph system. Lymph system? What's that? The lymphatic system is a unique network of vessels and organs that moves lymph (fluid that leaks out of the blood vessels) back into your bloodstream. The lymph system is a double agent playing an important role in two other systems, the circulatory and immune systems. On the circulatory side, it balances fluid levels and helps remove toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials from body tissues. As part of your immune system, it produces white blood cells and other defender cells that target anything foreign.
So, what does that have to do with breast health? The breasts are packed with lymph vessels. They are some of the most "lymphy" tissues we have. When that system isn't working well, toxins can build up, and the localized immune response is compromised, creating an environment more prone to disease. When you're trying to prevent breast disease, toxic buildup is not helpful.
There's another unique characteristic of the lymph system. Though it works with the circulatory system, there is a major difference: It doesn't have a pump. Our heart keeps our blood...well, pumping, but the lymphatic system relies entirely on movement to keep things flowing. The contraction of muscles and pulsing of arteries are the main forces moving lymph through their vessels. This poses an interesting problem for the breasts. They don't have any skeletal muscles to help flush lymph out, so they need some extra help.
4 Natural Ways to Support Lymph Flow for Healthier Breasts
Using Biomagnetism to Support Lymphatic Flow in Breast Tissue
Biomagnetism is a tool to stimulate lymph flow. Placing biomagnetic-grade magnets along the lymphatic pathways can support circulation and help the lymphatic system clear out waste. My favorite placement to support lymph flow is just below the clavicles; the black side of the magnet faces the skin on the right side of the body, and the red side faces the skin on the left side. This placement stimulates the thoracic duct, the largest lymph vessel in the body. You can use this pair as often as you like, aiming for 1–2 times a week. Leave the magnets on for 20-30 minutes. I often use this pair during car rides as an easy way to incorporate breast health into my daily routine.
Deep Breathing: A Simple Way to Promote Lymph Flow
This may seem obvious—of course, we need to breathe—but the act of inhaling and exhaling plays a unique role in supporting the lymph vessels of the breast. In this area, lymph vessels run between the ribs, and as you breathe, the spaces between the ribs expand and contract, creating a gentle pumping action that helps lymph circulate. Occasionally, a rib may become restricted, hampering its ability to pump lymph effectively. When this happens, lymph flow can stagnate, leading to a buildup of metabolic waste and toxins in the breast tissue. Over time, this stagnation can create an environment that may encourage unwanted changes in breast tissue. Regular visits to a chiropractor or other manual bodywork can help ensure that your ribs and surrounding structures are moving properly, reducing lymph stagnation and promoting breast health.
Why Movement Matters: Exercise to Boost Lymphatic Circulation
Movement is essential for healthy lymph flow, especially in breast tissue, which lacks skeletal muscles to naturally propel lymph. Walking, laughing, or exercising creates enough movement to encourage lymph flow in the breast area. Exercise provides an extra benefit because it moves the body and promotes deeper breathing, giving the lymphatic system a double boost. Every bit of movement counts, so try adding short breaks for stretching, walking, or even gentle breast massage throughout your day to keep things flowing smoothly.
How to Choose the Right Bra for Optimal Lymph Flow
Lymph vessels lie just below the skin’s surface and are delicate. This makes them easily compressed, especially by tight or restrictive bras. Bras with underwires, tight elastic bands, or straps can restrict lymph flow, leading to stagnation in the breast tissue and, over time, creating an environment that’s less than ideal for breast health.
To support lymph flow, opt for non-restrictive bras whenever possible and consider going without one as often as possible. Look for bras without underwires or with a looser fit around the band. A good tip: if you notice red marks on your skin after taking off your bra, it’s a sign that lymph flow is likely compromised. Giving your lymphatic system the freedom to flow smoothly can significantly improve your breast health.
You may have noticed a bit of a theme here…we want to keep that lymph moving! Whether it’s through using magnets, getting active, taking a few deep breaths, or swapping out tight bras, each step is designed to keep your lymph flowing freely. These simple changes can make a big difference in supporting long-term breast health. And stay tuned because, in the next article, we’ll dive into a unique way to take this even further—lymphatic breast massage. So, try adding one or two of these steps this week; your breasts—and your whole body—will thank you!
Comments