In Dr. Schmidt’s 7 Step Blueprint to Optimal Health, Step 3 focuses on Drainage. I believe this is one of the most important steps in the process of improving your health. In this context, drainage means helping your organs of elimination work optimally. Good drainage will help remove mucous and move fluid out of places they shouldn’t be and into places where they belong.
When these systems are functioning well, your body will be better able to remove the toxins and immune challenges encountered throughout the day.
There are several organs and systems that help to cleanse your body. The liver and gallbladder, kidneys and bladder, lymphatic system, digestive tract and bowels, sinuses, lungs, and skin.
When these organs aren’t working well, symptoms can arise.
Liver and gallbladder stress may cause symptoms such as:
- Skin problems
- Allergies
- Headaches
- Brain Fog
- Upset stomach, nausea
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Pain under the right rib area
- Pain between your shoulder blades
Kidney and bladder dysfunction may cause:
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Leaky bladder
- Pain in the lower abdominal area or low back
- Skin problems
Lymphatic system congestion may present as:
- Swelling under the chin
- Swelling under the armpits or groin
- Breast pain
Bowel drainage issues may include:
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Pain around the belly button or lower abdomen
- Bloating
- Cramping
- Belching and intestinal gas
Poor sinus drainage may cause:
- Congestion
- Runny nose or stuffy nose
- Post-nasal drip
- Headaches
- Ear congestion or ear drainage
Lung drainage concerns might include:
- Cough
- Congestion
- Wheezing, chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
The skin is also a major organ of elimination. When other drainage organs are not functioning well, the skin becomes overburdened and has to do more work with drainage. This can lead to:
- Acne
- Rashes
- Itchy skin
- Dry skin.
Skin issues can be a sign that other drainage pathways in the body need additional support.
In our office, we support drainage pathways and organs of elimination through diet and targeted supplementation that encourages better function. There are many whole food supplements, herbs, and homeopathic remedies that can make your body work better and more efficiently.
Because every body is different, there is no one perfect solution for everyone. We work with you individually to determine the best support for you and your needs.
Ways to support your Drainage Pathways
Diet
Focus on eating whole foods rather than processed products. Keep your refined carbohydrates low and include adequate protein and healthy fats.
Hydration
Drink adequate, clean water to support your body’s natural elimination processes.
Exercise
Movement helps stimulate the lymphatic system and supports the bowels and lungs to work better.
Limit toxic exposure
Avoiding toxic products on your body and in your home reduces the burden on your organs of elimination.
Sauna
Sweating can support cellular health and assist the lymphatic system.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, supporting your body’s drainage pathways may be an important step toward improving your overall health. I look forward to helping you in any way I can.
Yours in health,
