Credits: Social Media
Lymphatic drainage is not magic solution for weight-loss, says holistic wellness coach
Lymphatic drainage is all the rage on TikTok once again, with fans celebrating its ability to drain fat away and leave you with the most impressive glow-up of your life.
Social media is full to the brim with interesting hacks and solutions for everyday problems. Guinea pigs have reported great results from several hacks, including the simple trick to maintain cheap jewelry. Though health hacks like migraine relief baths have science to back them up, unfortunately, not all of TikTok’s tips are as magical as they sound.
What is Lymphatic drainage?
Though it might sound complicated, your Lymphatic system is actually a network of organs, vessels, and tissues that maintain your body’s liquid balance and protect you from infection. Notable parts of the system include lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, and bone marrow.
The theory is that correctly applying massages can aid your Lymphatic system in flushing toxins and inflammation out.
They have become hugely popular on TikTok, mostly because of the shocking before and after pictures that show dramatic weight loss.
Lymphatic drainage is most often applied in a medical setting for people who have suffered damage to their networks. This can happen for a number of reasons including cancer, recent surgery, developmental issues, infection, autoimmune disorders, and chronic swelling.
Draining your lymphatic system is not a ‘magical solution’
Though users report positive results in a medical setting, Lymphatic drainage is not the holy grail weight loss tactic you have been hoping for.
Cheryl Groskopf, a dually licensed professional clinical counselor, told The Focus that she only uses lymphatic drainage techniques as part of her “overall wellness toolkit.”
“While I do use dry brushing as part of my holistic health routine, it’s not a one-size-fits-all quick fix,” she explained. “Draining your lymphatic system won’t lead to sustainable weight loss. Any immediate changes are usually due to temporary fluid shifts, not actual fat loss.”
Instead, she suggested: “The idea that you can “drain” your way to weight loss is as flawed as it sounds. Real weight loss is about a balanced diet and regular exercise. Your metabolism and fat storage are complex processes that can’t be hacked just through lymphatic drainage.”
