The benefits of lymphatic drainage for reducing abdominal bloating.

The lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique designed to stimulate lymph flow. This clear fluid flows through a network of vessels parallel to those of the blood system. Lymph transports metabolic waste, toxins and excess fluids to the lymph nodes, where they are filtered before being expelled by the body. When lymphatic circulation is slowed down due to a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, circulatory disorders or an excess of adipose cells, the body struggles to clear these wastes. This can cause a feeling of heaviness and localised swelling, particularly around the abdomen. Lymphatic drainage aims to reactivate this circulation and reduce such stagnations, thereby imparting a sensation of a lighter, less tense abdomen.

Although generally safe, lymphatic drainage should be avoided in cases of infections, fever, deep vein thrombosis, heart failure or active cancers, as stimulating lymphatic circulation could exacerbate the patient’s condition. Before resorting to it, it is therefore advisable to seek medical advice.

Abdominal lymphatic drainage is one of the most popular lymphatic drainage massages. It indeed offers several noteworthy benefits.

• Reduction of abdominal distension and bloating : By enhancing the drainage of excess fluids, abdominal lymphatic drainage massage helps reduce water retention in the abdominal area. This results in a visible reduction of swelling and a sensation of a flatter abdomen.

• Relief of digestive disorders : Gentle movements applied to the abdomen stimulate tissue and muscle activity, promoting bowel transit. Drainage can thus help reduce constipation and improve daily intestinal comfort.

• Improvement of skin quality : By stimulating blood microcirculation, lymphatic drainage can make the abdominal skin firmer. This method is particularly effective for reducing cellulite.

Several scientific studies have confirmed the benefits of abdominal lymphatic drainage. For instance, one study monitored 32 patients who underwent abdominal liposuction, equally divided into two groups: a control group using only a compression garment, and a group combining the compression garment with abdominal lymphatic drainage. Abdominal circumference measurements were performed at three levels around the navel from postoperative day 1 to day 7. The results showed a significant reduction in lymphoedema in the group receiving lymphatic drainage, although the researchers did not disclose the numerical data.

Manual lymphatic drainage thus appears to enhance the reduction of abdominal swelling following surgical intervention, beyond the effect of compression garments alone.

Other studies have also explored the benefits of lymphatic drainage following abdominal surgical procedures. A prospective study followed 20 women who had undergone an abdominoplasty combined with liposuction. All participants wore a standard compression garment for eight weeks postoperatively. From the sixth week onwards, the treatment group received lymphatic drainage sessions twice weekly for three weeks, whereas the control group wore only the compression garment. Abdominal circumference was measured at weeks 6 and 8, and a greater reduction in oedema was observed in the treatment group.

Contrary to some common misconceptions, the lymphatic drainage does not induce fat mass loss and therefore does not slim the abdomen. The effects observed after a session are primarily due to the mobilisation of fluids retained within tissues, which temporarily reduces swelling and gives the sensation of a flatter stomach. This action is particularly beneficial for individuals prone to water retention or bloating resulting from sluggish lymphatic circulation. However, to effectively target abdominal fat and obtain a sustained reduction in waist circumference, lymphatic drainage must be combined with a balanced diet, regular physical activity and good lifestyle habits.

Lymphatic drainage of the abdomen can be practised in a clinic, but it is also possible to perform certain simple manoeuvres at home to stimulate lymph circulation. The essential point is to remember that lymph moves slowly and superficially: the movements must therefore remain gentle, slow and steady, without ever causing pain. Before commencing, it is recommended to adopt a comfortable position, lying on your back or in a semi-reclined posture, so as to relax the abdominal region.

The movements consist primarily of gentle pressure and circular motions following the natural pathway of lymph towards the inguinal lymph nodes. Begin by placing your hands flat on your lower abdomen and make small circles in the clockwise direction, to promote intestinal transit and decongestion. Then use soft gliding strokes down the abdomen towards the inguinal folds to guide retained fluids towards the lymphatic filtration zones.

For visible results, consistency is crucial: most institutes recommend one to two sessions per week, for a total of six to eight sessions.

• MEHRARA B. J. & al. Obesity-induced lymphatic dysfunction is reversible with weight loss. The Journal of Physiology (2016).

• PAZDERNIK V. K. & al. Manual lymphatic drainage in postoperative abdominoplasty with core liposuction patients. The American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery (2019).

• ROSSMEISLOVA L. & al. Lymphatic drainage affects lipolytic activity of femoral adipose tissue in women. International Journal of Obesity (2020).

• ROSSMEISLOVA L. & al. Lymphatic drainage affects lipolytic activity of femoral adipose tissue in women. International Journal of Obesity (2020).