‘Lymphatic walking’ trend promises less bloating and more energy. What does it really involve?

“Lymphatic walking,” a slow-paced routine built around breathing, posture and natural movement, has gained popularity on social media as a way to reduce bloating and increase energy.

The technique does not focus on speed or the number of steps. It involves walking with a straight back, relaxed shoulders and naturally moving arms, at a pace easy enough to maintain a conversation without gasping. Supporters also emphasize slow, deep breathing.

Dr. Mikel Daniels, a podiatrist and medical director at WeTreatFeet Podiatry, said the benefits of light movement have long been known. The newer element, he suggested, is the popularity of giving those benefits the label “lymphatic walking.” Trainer David J. Sautter said movement and breathing help lymph circulate through the body, which walking can support.

Parade.com journalist Alexa Mellardo tested the routine for two weeks. She walked for 15 minutes a day during the first week and increased the time to 30 minutes during the second. She said she felt more energetic in the mornings and slept better after the first week. During the second week, she noticed less bloating after her walks.

Those observations describe one person’s experience and do not show that the routine produces the same effects for everyone. Walking and movement can aid digestion and circulation, but specialists cited by Parade said there is no reason to regard lymphatic walking as a remedy for bloating. Persistent or frequent symptoms should be assessed by a doctor. Daniels also cautioned against promising dramatic weight loss in two weeks or permanently eliminating bloating without other changes.

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I did not promise dramatic weight loss in two weeks.