Dear Dr. Lisa,

You recently wrote that exercise improves the appearance of your skin. OK, maybe it makes you feel better but how could it help your skin? – Skin Skeptical

Dear Skeptical,

Most people know about the blood in the circulatory system and the nerves in the nervous syste. But there is another system that is largely forgotten: the lymphatic system! Imagine your circulatory system with all your blood vessels and your heart to pump it around. This is how your body gets all the nutrition to all your body’s parts, including your skin. It has the heart to pump it around. Well, your lymphatic system is your body’s means of getting rid of the waste that builds up in all your body’s parts by moving it in the lymphatic fluid. But the lymphatic system doesn’t have a heart to pump it around. The fluid in your lymphatics carrying your wastes gets pumped by muscles and movement. Now most people move their hands to their mouths and their arms to their steering wheels. But if you really want to make a difference in your life - move your whole body with a fun exercise program. Your body will be so happy to move your fluids around. Your body pieces will have an easier time receiving and getting rid of everything they need. And guess what - your skin will look better too.

Dear Dr. Lisa,

What do you think are better to use at the gym, free weights or machine weights? –Buffy

Dear Buffy,

The best thing to do at the gym is hire a personal trainer for a few sessions to perfect your lifting technique. If you have good technique then free weights provide more for your lifelong well-being than machine weights. First of all, most machines are designed for your average-sized man. If you’ve got monkey arms, a long torso, a short stature or two X chromosomes these machines are not going to “fit” you exactly and they may place your joints in funky positions. If you can use good technique and light enough weights that you aren’t compelled to cheat then free weights are appropriate for anybody’s size and frame. Free weights also train you in balance. Balance will be the most important part of protecting your body when you are really getting old.

This information is provided as a public service for education and entertainment. Always make an appointment with your doctor when seeking medical advice.

E-mail your questions to Dr. Carisio at mariposagazette@mariposagazette.com.