Mesenteric lymphadenitis is a condition where the lymph nodes in the mesentery that attach the abdominal wall to the intestine seem to be swelled or inflamed. An intestinal infection usually causes it and can be bacterial or viral.
Also called mesenteric adenitis, mesenteric lymphadenitis mainly affects teens and children. This blog has covered the best foods for people with mesenteric lymphadenitis to add to their diet.
Boost the Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is crucial in maintaining our health and overall well-being. Although closely connected to the circulatory system, it is often overlooked or forgotten. We only think about it when issues with our lymph nodes arise, typically during an infection. However, we need to have a deeper understanding of this essential system.
The lymphatic system involves various functions such as weight control, immune system support, blood cleansing, and body detoxification. It consists of an extensive network of lymphatic vessels that collect fluid from the tissues, filter it, and return it to the bloodstream. This process helps recycle blood plasma and maintain the balance within our bodies.
Lymphoid tissue is a part of digestion that absorbs fats from the intestines and transports them to the blood. It carries white blood cells (WBC) throughout our bodies to remove dangerous microorganisms and foreign waste.
The lymphatic system removes toxins, waste, harmful material or organisms from the tissues, and excess fat. This has a vast impact on the accumulation of cellulite and fat. Fat cells take a stand and encapsulate the offending matter if toxins are not removed. If excess fat is not removed, the body responds by storing more. The body can store excess fat as a means to eliminate toxins. By improving the health and functionality of the lymphatic system, it becomes more efficient in removing sources of discomfort such as aches, pains, fatty deposits, and cellulite.
It is advisable to steer chemicals clear of toxins and difficult-to-digest foods, mainly processed foods that contain artificial ingredients, pesticides, and preservatives, to promote a healthier lymphatic system. Instead, incorporate more of these nourishing foods into your diet.
Here are the best ten foods that people with mesenteric lymphadenitis can incorporate into their diet:
1. Leafy greens
2. Nuts and seeds
3. Water
4. Sweet potatoes
6. Citrus
7. Seaweed
8. Turmeric
9. Adaptogens (like mushroom)
10. Cranberry
1. Leafy greens
Leafy greens quickly fix a lazy lymphatic system and break down toxins rapidly. They are packed with various antioxidants and enzymes that help the body to filter out impurities.
Green leafy vegetables such as wheatgrass, barley grass, kale, spinach, and much more contain chlorophyll, a green nutrient that has powerful effects on the blood vessels and lymph fluids. Its cleansing properties stimulate lymph circulation and improve overall body health.
2. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts are full of nutrients and vitamins that aid in proper drainage of the lymphatic system. They are rich in antioxidant polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids that control inflammation levels.
Nuts like almonds, walnuts, peanuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and cashews contain fibre and magnesium that can massively benefit lymphatic health.
3. Water
Water doesn’t surprise anyone, but drinking plenty of water is essential for a healthy lymphatic system. It is a primary component of the lymph that traps microbes and bacteria and keeps the functioning of immune cells properly.
A healthy lymphatic system comprises 95% water, which means dehydration can lead to clogged and swollen lymph nodes and lymph congestion.
Aim to drink 1/2 to 1 gallon of water daily, depending on your activity level and lifestyle.
4. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are abundant in antioxidants and contain four times the suggested daily intake of Beta-Carotene. The body converts this into Vitamin A, which plays an immense role in supporting immune function. Sweet potatoes are highly rich in vitamin B6, and the potassium content helps in lymph drainage.
5. Herbs & Spices
Consuming herbs and spices such as parsley, cilantro, ginger, and calendula is a big antioxidant punch to your body. Herbs and spices benefit circulation and digestion - the systems connected directly to the lymphatic system.
Eat ginger semi-regularly as it is regarded as a warming herb and reboots digestive organs, spleens, lymph nodes, and the heart.
6. Citrus
Citrus fruits help hydrate and protect the lymphatic system with powerful antioxidants and enzymes. Adding citrus to your diet cleanses the lymphatic system and alkalises your pH balance, facilitating lymph flow.
7. Seaweeds
Like terrestrial plants, sea vegetables contain a significant amount of chlorophyll. This chlorophyll acts as a potent cleanser, purifying the bodily fluids like blood and lymph that circulate throughout our body, ultimately promoting better overall health.
We can gently purify our bodies by incorporating more ocean and land plant proteins into our diet. The advantages of seaweed baths are well-known, as they effectively break down lactic acid and relieve aches and pains.
Additionally, they enhance blood circulation and stimulate the lymphatic system. These baths also aid in healing skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis while combating signs of ageing and cellulite.
Sea vegetables play a crucial role in detoxifying the body and eliminating excess fluid that may accumulate in tissues, thereby preventing the sluggishness of the lymphatic system.
8. Turmeric
Turmeric is one such herb that is full of anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. It stimulates lymphatic drainage and alleviates lymph node swelling. Some researchers attribute the regular consumption of turmeric to the best support for mental clarity, inner and outer skin health, digestion, and healthy lymphatic drainage.
9. Adaptogens
Adaptogens such as tulsi and mushrooms employ the healing system naturally and restore optimal health.
10. Cranberry
Cranberry juice is a fantastic emulsifier of fat and breaks down the access for the lymphatic vessels to carry away. This natural diuretic keeps the lymph moving freely, flushes out the excessive fluid, and reduces swelling.
Conclusion
There is no particular diet for mesenteric lymphadenitis, but it is highly recommended to have a healthy and balanced diet that can support the overall immune functions of the body.
Eat foods that help ease digestion, stay hydrated, and avoid spicy junk foods. If you still need clarification about the diet plan for mesenteric lymphadenitis, talk to your healthcare provider today!
