Walking is having a wellness makeover on social media. The latest trend, “lymphatic walking”, involves swinging your arms more, maintaining an upright posture and taking deeper breaths while you walk. These actions are said to help move lymph around the body. Its followers claim it can reduce bloating and improve circulation, support immune function, and even help “flush toxins” from the body.
There is some science behind the idea. Our muscles already help move lymph every time they contract and relax. But what does the lymphatic system actually do, and can a particular style of walking really change how it works?