Proponents claim that jumping on a trampoline activates the lymphatic system and helps detoxify the body. Here, we take a deep dive into the science.
Can jumping on a trampoline help the body detoxify?
Detoxification is an intriguing concept in the health and fitness world, with the market for devices, goods, and supplies aiding in detox estimated to exceed $56 billion. The theory behind the claim that trampoline exercise supports detoxification is that jumping enhances detoxification for clearer skin, easier weight loss, and flushing out “waste” and “infections.”
“The lymphatic system is part of the immune system and helps the body fight infections,” says Reid MacLellan, founder and CEO of Cortina and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School. In this system, lymph fluid transports waste products, viruses, bacteria, and other debris to help the immune system identify and combat diseases. Experts in alternative health believe that the lymphatic system needs assistance in performing this role – particularly from jumping on a trampoline.
What proponents of trampoline detox argue is that the lymphatic system lacks a pump, unlike the circulatory system. While your heart pumps blood throughout your body, there isn’t an organ that circulates the fluid filtered by the lymphatic system. They argue that the rapid changes in gravity you experience while jumping on a trampoline lead to the expansion of lymphatic vessels, resulting in improved lymphatic circulation. But does science support this theory? Not much.
While it is true that the lymphatic system does not have a pump, the body can move fluids through it without a pump, according to JB Kirby, a nurse practitioner in acute care with a research background in oncology.
The interstitial cells of lymphatic vessels form one-way valves, allowing fluid in but not out, with the build-up of pressure. This fluid moves with the help of breathing and muscular activity – all without the need for a pump or any other assistance.
An overview of studies supporting detox claims
A study published by NASA in 1980 forms the basis for most trampoline detox arguments. During this study, a group of NASA researchers sought to determine the ideal type of exercise that astronauts should perform in a zero-gravity environment to prevent deterioration of their hearts, muscles, and bones.
The study focused on analyzing the acceleration of different parts of the body during specific exercises, according to Kirby. “The study measured the speed of astronaut movements while jumping, but they did not measure lymphatic fluid movement.”
Thus, this study does not show any benefits for the lymphatic system. Meanwhile, another small study was conducted in 2000 on individuals suffering from swelling in their lower legs who wore compression stockings, according to Kirby. “This study measured how lymphatic fluid was removed by massage, not trampoline use.”
Finally, a small experimental study was conducted on leg swelling caused by fluid retention in soft tissue, looking at whether specific exercises, including using a trampoline in water, could alleviate it. This study is considered low quality, uncontrolled, and only studied 11 participants, according to Kirby. “So no, the trampoline does not detoxify the lymphatic system, [according to any reliable research].”
Health benefits of trampoline exercise
Despite the lack of support for lymphatic theory, there are other ways jumping on a trampoline can enhance health and even support your body’s natural detox processes, according to Dr. MacLellan. “Jumping on a trampoline is a whole-body exercise that helps maintain overall health – and exercise is an important part of the lymphatic system.” Here are some ways you might benefit from using a trampoline.
Contraction
The muscles and sweating transport lymphatic fluid
Dr. McLellan explains that muscle contractions move lymphatic fluid through the lymphatic system, so any type of exercise that causes muscle contraction can benefit the lymphatic system, including jumping on a trampoline.
Similarly, sweating from exercise and movement in general will help with cleansing through the lymphatic system, according to Dr. Carl Page, co-founder and medical director of the Transformational Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky. “It’s not the trampoline itself, but if it’s a way to help you get up and do something, that’s great.”
Jumping burns calories and boosts metabolism
When you jump on a trampoline, you burn calories and increase your metabolic rate by raising your heart rate, according to Kirby. “Any movement will help move fluids in the body and ultimately lead to weight loss, which is why some people believe that jumping directly causes lymphatic fluid to move.”
Cardiovascular exercise reduces stress and cholesterol levels
Engaging in cardiovascular exercises, such as jumping on a trampoline, comes with many positive effects on both mental and physical health. These include everything from better blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels to reduced stress and anxiety and improved sleep quality.
But you don’t have to do cardiovascular exercise on a trampoline to reap these benefits. Any type of cardiovascular and resistance exercise supports the lymphatic system and overall health – from running to weight lifting. The trampoline is just one, albeit a very fun, way to achieve those goals.
The importance of a healthy lymphatic system
Maintaining a healthy lymphatic system is crucial for your overall health. While arteries carry oxygenated blood to your tissues and veins carry it away, anything that leaks or remains from that exchange is captured by the lymphatic system, according to Dr. Page. “When your tissues finish with the blood delivered to them, fluids, cells, waste, byproducts of metabolism, and other things that your body doesn’t need remain.”
According to Dr. Page, if the movement and function of the lymphatic system are weak, it affects the immune system, the thymus gland, and the production and regulation of T cells, “You may be experiencing swelling or even severe forms of fluid retention,” he says.
An important aspect of lymphatic health is the glymphatic system, which is a network of channels that helps remove metabolic waste products that accumulate in the empty spaces of your brain, according to Dr. Page. “In fact, this work should happen every day, typically at night when your position and sleeping posture allow your brain to recover by moving the lymphatic fluids, and thus, the waste away.”
Studies indicate that the state of glymphatic health can affect immune response and central nervous system function, according to Dr. Page. “Research is also linking glymphatic function to age-related cognitive decline, vascular and nerve diseases, and the ability to heal injuries and tumors.”
How to maintain lymphatic health
Keeping your lymphatic system in top shape goes beyond just exercising on a trampoline, according to Kirby. “Since the lymphatic system is part of the immune system, anything that supports the immune system will also support the lymphatic system.”
She suggests avoiding toxic substances like pesticides and cleaning products, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly. Additionally, eating a nutrient-rich diet is beneficial. If you’re healthy, the lymphatic system does not require anything special beyond your ongoing health care habits (diet, hydration, exercise, sleep, and reducing stress).
If
If you have a condition causing fluid retention, there are safer and more effective ways to increase lymphatic drainage. Dr. Page recommends swimming, using massage, wearing compression bandages, and avoiding tight clothing.
In summary? Jump for fun, not for detox
While the old claims that trampolining can help detoxify the body and stimulate the lymphatic system are intriguing, the evidence is insufficient to support them. All scientific indications suggest that trampolining is merely another tool to enhance your movement.
However, adding trampoline exercise to your workout routine is an effective and enjoyable way to stay active. But it should be part of a broader approach to a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Source: https://www.aol.com/jumping-trampoline-actually-help-detox-152745334.html
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