Summer is Coming...The Dreaded Fear of Cellulite

Although many people dread cellulite, it is not a medical condition. It is just ordinary fat that accumulates under the skin. Popularly known as the orange peel syndrome, cellulite manifests through skin dimpling as layers of fat push against the connective tissues under the skin.

It gathers around the pelvic region, abdomen and lower limbs. Due to its puckered look, many people would not love stepping out onto the beach in a bikini with the embarrassing evidence of cellulite. It has several scientific names which include adiposis edematosa, status protrusus, and gynoid lipodystrophy.

What are the symptoms of cellulite?

More than 80% of the ladies in their post-pubescent stage will experience cellulite. It is more of a physiological condition than pathological. As the fat cells develop under the skin, they push against the connective tissue above them, resulting in the appearance of bumps, or dimples on the skin. Since it accumulates around the buttocks, abdomen and lower limbs, it may not be possible to hide the almost hideous look. Many people with this condition would; therefore, try to get rid of the cellulite.

Causes of cellulite

A slowing down in the flow of the lymph fluid and blood is the biggest culprit behind the accumulation of cellulite in the skin. When blood flow slows down, the connective tissues covering the fat cells grow weaker and lose their elasticity, and eventually tighten down on the fat cells underneath the skin.

Several factors may lead to the slowdown of blood and lymph flow. Hormones such as estrogen, noradrenalin, and prolactin may contribute to the cellulite production process. Ingesting too much fat and carbohydrates, and too little fiber may increase the amount of cellulite in your body. Also, you are a prime candidate for cellulite if your body does not get enough physical exercises.

Dietary changes

One of the common causes of cellulite is poor dieting. You can tackle this problem by instituting various dietary changes in your lifestyle. Since different people have different concepts of healthy eating, it is important to consult nutrition experts before embarking on any food regimen. However, because cellulite results from excess fats, you may want to go easy on fatty foods, or avoid them altogether.

Cellulite is not necessarily a weight problem as thin people may also have the condition. Don't eat to reduce weight, rather cut down on the amount of cellulite or limit the chances of its development. Go for low-fat edibles such as vegetables, fruits, and fiber-rich foodstuffs.

Supplement Tips

Fat burners

Multivitamins: Whichever supplements you go for, be sure they include Vitamin B6, C, and E in their ingredients. They help burn up and break down excess fats; hence, reducing the growth of cellulite. They also ensure healthy blood and lymph flow that supplies nutrients to all parts of the body, including the connective tissue.

Chromium: According to the Office Dietary Supplements, Chromium is a natural mineral that boosts insulin activity, leading to improved metabolism. It aids in the breaking down of carbohydrates, proteins and fat cells which are responsible for the development of cellulite.

Green tea: Another useful supplement for cellulite due to its weight loss ability. Not that it can melt the excess fats off, but you can use it to keep fatty and sugary foods at bay. Instead of going for the soda, take a cup of green tea. Research shows that it improves blood flow in the body, reducing the chances of cellulite formation.

Garcinia cambogia: Garcinia Camobigia's ability to block the body from manufacturing extra fats makes it a favourite cellulite-loss agent. It is possible through its active ingredient, hydroxy citric acid, which burns down fats and reduces the appetite for fatty and sugary foods.

Capsicum: Its active ingredient, capsaicin, helps in unclogging blood vessels; thus, boosting blood circulation. By so doing, it hinders the accumulation of fat cells under the skin.

Antioxidants

Consuming more antioxidants alongside your daily meals goes a long way in keeping cellulite at bay. Supplements such as black pepper extract and Coenzyme Q10 have the ability to increase blood circulation, minimising the appearance of cellulite. Lots of green tea will boost the body’s ability to burn calories because green tea is naturally high in anti-oxidants. Dandelions may also come in handy as they release any fluid trapped under the skin, giving way to smoother skin.

Exercise Tips 

Cardiovascular exercises

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 3-5 days of cardio workouts every week. Such exercises include jogging, walking, swimming, and skating. These exercises improve blood circulation and help burn excess calories in your body, keeping cellulite at bay.

Thigh exercises: Cellulite around your thighs can be quite unsightly. However, several thigh-specific exercises can help you combat the problem. For the thigh buster, you need an exercise band that is at least five feet long. You may also need an exercise ball for the hamstring roll. These activities exert pressure on your thighs, causing them to burn out any fats accumulating around them.

Aerobics: A little aerobics will not only keep cellulite at bay but will also boost your general health. Aerobics will improve the circulation of blood in your body and keep your cardiovascular condition in tip top shape. You don’t need to hit the gym: the exercise band and the exercise ball would do the job perfectly. Regular exercising is the key to effectively fighting cellulite.

It can be quite challenging to keep cellulite off your abdomen and thighs because it is not a medical condition. Besides, some of its causes, such as genetics and hormones, are beyond human control. However, healthy dieting, regular exercises and use of natural supplements, such as green tea, can go a long way in boosting the flow of blood in your systems; hence, preventing cellulite from accumulating. Keep in mind that cellulite is not harmful so don’t get desperate as you may give in to the temptation to take extreme measures that may do more harm than good to your body.