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| - Last Updated on September 25, 2024 by Nivedita
Quick Take
A video on social media claims eating turmeric, coconut oil and black pepper cleanses the lymphatic system. We fact-checked and found the claim is Half True. These ingredients can have some side effects that can become difficult to manage for some people.
The Claim
A video on Facebook shows a woman mixing turmeric, coconut oil and black pepper and warming the concoction by keeping the bowl in hot water. The video claims eating the concoction can clean the lymphatic system.
Fact Check
Can you clean the lymphatic system naturally?
It seems so. Living a healthy lifestyle can have a good impact on the normal functioning of various metabolic processes within the body. So, a healthy diet, routine exercise and regular health checkups can keep the lymph system in good shape, helping the body better fight off the infection and prevent blockage in the lymph gland.
Nutritionist Anurupa Bose says, “There is no specific food that can help to clean the lymphatic system but yes in multiple studies it has been observed that foods that are rich in protein and antioxidants help to boost the health of immune system cells to fight against infection there by helping to preserve the lymphatic system as well.”
A few papers have shown that turmeric, black pepper and coconut oil have properties that can influence the smooth flow of the lymphatic system.
We often see fake posts on social media. One of its kind claims that coconut oil can cure COVID-19.
Is it necessary to clean the lymphatic system?
Not exactly. Various metabolic processes in the human body can get rid of toxins on their own. However, in case of certain diseases or an unhealthy lifestyle, lymphatic congestion can occur to cause fatigue, swelling, inflammation and associated medical diseases and illnesses.
This is further confirmed by Dr. S Krishna Prasanthi, MBBS, MD (PGIMER), who says, “There is no need for people to follow additional steps to clean their lymphatic system. We do not know any concept of blockage and the need for cleaning the lymphatic system through natural steps. Any blockage, if at all happens, as witnessed in lymphatic filariasis, results in oedema. Like the misinformation spread on the Internet, the concept of cleaning of the lymphatic system is misleading.” It seems that even if there is any blockage, it is better to consult a doctor and get proper treatment rather than relying on natural remedies.
What can be the dangers of trying to clean the lymphatic system through home remedies and not seek medical advice?
Eating turmeric, coconut oil, and black pepper won’t necessarily cause any problems for most people. However, some people may suffer from side effects in case of any underlying medical condition, allergy, indigestion or eating way too much.
Some people may suffer from stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhoea after eating turmeric. Eating too much black pepper may upset the stomach or cause heartburn and indigestion. Also, coconut oil can lead to diarrhoea, cramps, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
While exploring the health benefits of turmeric and coconut oil, it’s also important to consider how dietary choices can affect conditions like celiac disease, as highlighted in our article on the risks associated with different types of rusks.
If you suffer from these symptoms, it can be dangerous to not seek medical attention and keep trying out home remedies.
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