How to Fight Cellulite

Cellulite is a condition of the skin caused by the protrusion of fat cells through layers of tissue. Collagen is a substance in the body that, among other things, gives our skin strength and elasticity. When this breaks down it allows those troublesome fat cells to emerge closer to the surface of the skin. This causes the look of dimples and puckers in the skin, what some refer to as “cottage cheese,” and is most commonly found in the butt and thigh area. While there is no serious health risk involved this condition is often bothersome and unsightly to many.

So what can we do to get rid of cellulite or reduce its appearance? While cellulite can be found in anyone regardless of size or shape, and for some can turn into a lifelong battle; there are a number of steps that we can take to help guard ourselves against it and re-shape our bodies.

Your best friends in your fight against cellulite are going to be diet and exercise. Cutting calories and limiting your intake of certain foods, such as those that are processed or refined and that contain excess amounts of sodium, which can lead to an increase in water retention, is a big first step. Reducing calories by 500 to 1,000 a day can help us drop up to one to two pounds a week. There are a number of online calorie trackers that you can use, or just keep track in a notebook. Try to purchase foods that are low in sodium and sugars, such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. This will put you on the right path to a better body inside and out.

As part of this new healthy diet, look closely at the beverages that you consume. Calories creep up on us in the form of sodas, coffees and teas, and alcohol. Your best bet when reaching for a beverage is water, as it is calorie free, and help your body to flush out unwanted wastes and toxins. Aim for the recommended 64 ounces a day. Being adequately hydrated also helps curb appetite, because what is sometimes interpreted as hunger pains is often our body telling us it is dehydrated.

Along with your healthy diet it is important to begin some type of exercise regimen. Since cellulite most commonly affects the areas of the body like the thighs and glutes, exercises that target these places, along with cardiovascular workouts, will be most beneficial.

Strength training, or weight training exercise such as lunges, squats, leg curls, and calf raises are excellent tools that target these specific areas. Weight training two to three times per week is a great way to sculpt problem areas and build up muscle. Cardiovascular exercise increase blood flow and circulation, allowing the body to perform optimally as it has an easier time getting oxygenated blood to tissues and organs, and removing excess waste and fluids.

Believe it or not, even the clothes that we wear can contribute to the formation of cellulite in our bodies. Underwear or other clothes with tight elastic around our butt or thighs limits these areas ability to get adequate blood supply. Thus contributing to the break down of collagen and the appearance of cellulite.