What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is a pretty common condition that affects the layer of fat beneath your skin, causing a bumpy, “orange peel” appearance. It usually flares up after puberty and may get worse during times of hormonal changes like pregnancy or menopause. Although it can develop on various parts of the body, it’s usually found on the thighs, buttocks, knees, ankles, and belly. Now let’s get down to the causes and how you can fight against it.
How does Cellulite Develop?
Cellulite forms when there’s an issue with the tissue underneath your skin, filled predominantly with fat. The problem begins with the increase in fat cell volume and fluid building up, leading to a domino effect. Your cells and tiny blood vessels begin to react in unusual ways because of less oxygen. The thin and fragile membrane around them can easily break, releasing more fat. At this point, you’ve got cellulite.
If the factors causing poor blood flow aren’t addressed, your body tries to fix the issue, leading to the next stage of cellulite. Here, new collagen fibers are produced to encase the affected areas. In its final stages, larger painful nodules form under the skin, getting worse in severe cases with signs of poor circulation.
What are the Types of Cellulites?
Cellulite comes in a few types: ‘solid’ cellulite, ‘soft’ cellulite, and ‘edematous’ or fluid-filled cellulite. People in good shape and with toned muscles usually have solid cellulite, while soft cellulite often affects middle-aged people with weaker (hypotonic) tissue. The last type often occurs with solid cellulite and it’s typically seen on legs, linked to certain circulation issues.
What Causes Cellulite?
Several factors contribute to cellulite development including genes, hormone levels, and issues with blood vessels. But things like a sedentary lifestyle, improper diet, stress, liver problems, or intestinal issues can all make it worse.
How to Tackle Cellulite?
One of the best ways to fight cellulite is through massage, which helps increase blood flow and improve skin oxygenation. It’s also essential to keep your muscles toned with regular physical activity, which can help smooth the skin and lessen the appearance of cellulite.
Eating a balanced diet is crucial too. Using a combination of your medical history and certain blood tests, a nutritionist can develop a personalized anti-cellulite diet plan. Here are a few general tips:
– Have around 4-5 balanced meals per day.
– Include plenty of veggies and vitamin C-rich fruits.
– Choose simple cooking methods like grilling or steaming.
– Don’t add too much salt.
– Drink lots of still water, which helps flush out excess fluids.
– Avoid too much salty food.
– Regular physical activities like walking, swimming, and gymnastics can be beneficial.
Remember, the best approach to get rid of cellulite involves eating fewer unhealthy calories, more exercise, and the right diet. This way, you can lose weight and reduce the level of cellulite.
