Quick Answer
It is recommended to drink plenty of water after a lymphatic drainage massage to help flush toxins and waste from your system. Aim for at least 8 ounces (240 ml) of water immediately after your massage and continue drinking water throughout the day. Most experts recommend drinking half your body weight (in pounds) in ounces of water.
How Much Water Should You Drink?
Here are some general guidelines on how much water to drink after a lymphatic drainage massage:
- Drink at least 8 ounces (240 ml) of water immediately after your massage session.
- Continue drinking water throughout the day, aiming for half your body weight (in pounds) in ounces.
- For example, if you weigh 150 lbs, you should drink around 75 ounces of water per day.
- Drink more if you are sweating heavily or are in a hot climate.
- Sip water slowly rather than chugging large amounts.
- Add lemon, lime, or fresh fruit to your water for flavor.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol which can dehydrate you.
Why Drink Water After Lymphatic Massage?
Here are some of the key reasons why it’s important to stay hydrated after a lymphatic drainage massage:
- Flushes toxins – Drinking water helps flush waste and toxins released during the massage through your kidneys and liver.
- Avoids dehydration – Massage improves circulation and can cause fluid shifts in the body. Drinking water prevents dehydration.
- Boosts immune function – Staying hydrated supports lymph flow and immune health.
- Reduces fatigue – Dehydration can cause tiredness and low energy. Proper hydration gives you an energy boost.
- Improves constipation – Water softens stools and improves regularity which aids toxin elimination.
- Minimizes headaches – Headaches are a common symptom of dehydration. Water can provide headache relief.
Tips for Staying Hydrated
Here are some extra tips for making sure you drink enough water after your lymphatic drainage massage:
- Drink a large glass of water first thing when you wake up.
- Carry a water bottle with you to sip throughout the day.
- Set reminders on your phone or smart watch to drink water hourly.
- Infuse your water with fruit or add lemon/lime for flavor.
- Eat water-rich fruits and veggies like cucumber, watermelon, strawberries.
- Limit sugary or caffeinated drinks which can dehydrate you.
- Pay attention to the color of your urine – it should be a pale yellow if you are hydrated.
Signs of Dehydration to Watch For
Watch for these signs that you may not be drinking enough water, especially after a lymphatic drainage massage:
- Dark yellow or orange urine
- Fatigue and low energy
- Headaches
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Muscle cramps
- Dry mouth and lips
- Increased thirst
- Infrequent urination
- Dry skin
- Constipation
If you experience any dehydration symptoms, make sure to increase your water intake. Severe dehydration may require medical attention so consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
When to Drink More Water
Certain situations and conditions may require drinking extra water, especially after a lymphatic drainage massage.
Drink more if you:
- Live or work in hot climates
- Exercise intensely
- Are recovering from an illness
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Consume alcohol, coffee or tea
- Eat a high fiber diet
- Take diuretic medications
- Sweat heavily
Listen to your body’s thirst signals and be sure to hydrate before, during and after any activity that causes heavy sweating.
Risks of Dehydration
It’s important to take dehydration seriously, as it can have adverse effects on your health:
- Impaired physical and mental performance
- Kidney stones
- Urinary tract infections
- Constipation
- Low blood pressure
- Electrolyte imbalances
Severe dehydration requires urgent medical treatment and can be fatal if left untreated. Seek emergency care if you experience rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, sunken eyes, non-urinating for more than 8 hours, or extreme thirst.
Water vs. Other Beverages
While water is ideal, other beverages can contribute to your fluid needs as long as they are not high in sugar or caffeine.
Healthy options include:
- Coconut water
- Fruit or vegetable juices
- Milk
- Herbal tea
- Sparkling water
- Electrolyte drinks
- Bone broth
Limit intake of sugary drinks, soda, coffee, energy drinks and alcohol which can dehydrate you. If you do consume caffeinated beverages, balance them with extra water.
Staying Hydrated With a Busy Lifestyle
Here are some tips for staying hydrated even with a busy, on-the-go lifestyle:
- Carry a refillable water bottle or tumbler with you.
- Set cell phone reminders to drink water throughout the day.
- Keep a water bottle on your desk and sip between tasks.
- Choose water with meals when eating out.
- Opt for water when flying and remember the low cabin humidity dehydrates you faster.
- Add lemon or portable water enhancers to make plain water more exciting.
- Schedule water breaks just like you would any other appointment.
The key is to make drinking water a habit no matter how busy you are. Your body needs hydration to function properly.
Conclusion
Drinking adequate water is essential after a lymphatic drainage massage to flush toxins and prevent dehydration. Aim for at least 8 ounces immediately after and half your body weight in ounces per day. Watch for signs of dehydration like fatigue and headaches. Increase water intake with exercise, hot weather, illness or pregnancy. While water is best, other hydrating beverages can help meet your fluid needs. Make drinking water throughout the day a habit, even with a busy lifestyle, to support lymph flow and overall health.
