Dealing with Cellulite

18 April 2008

Cellulite is a series of ripples of fat cells and subcutaneous connective tissue under the skin. Usually found on the thighs and butt, especially in women, it has a characteristic 'orange peel' appearance. It affects women but very few men, probably because of a difference in cell structure between men and women. Cellulite causes a great deal of angst, pulling at the skin and peering in the mirror, and has spawned a host of treatments to deal with it.

What Causes Cellulite?
We don't know why cellulite is caused. Some experts believe it is caused by a problem in the fat cells. Others believe toxins in the system are responsible for cellulite. Other experts think hormones cause cellulite. As yet, no consensus has emerged as to the root cause of cellulite.

One plausible explanation - which also explains why very few men suffer from cellulite - is based on the composition and behavior of women's fat cells and the connective tissue that holds them in place. Very simply, a woman's connective tissue is very inflexible, so as she gains weight and her fat cells expand, they tend to bulge upwards towards the surface of the skin, giving the classic orange-peel appearance of cellulite. In men, not only is there generally less fat on the thighs, but also the outer skin is thicker and thus obscures what is happening to any surplus fat below.

Does Being Overweight Cause Cellulite?
Being overweight does not automatically cause cellulite. Some people with cellulite have slim figures and an ideal weight. Post menopausal women tend to have more cellulite than younger people, although it's also prevalent in adolescents.
There is a clear association between excess fat and cellulite. The enlarged fat cells put pressure on connective tissue which affects the skin's smoothness and tautness. To keep the layer of connective tissue between the fat cells supple, eat foods rich in bioflavonoids and vitamin C.

Is There a Cure for Cellulite?
Bottom line - despite intensive research, there is no non-surgical cure for cellulite but there are numerous cellulite treatments such as Velashape to tackle that dimpled appearance.  There’s a plethora of creams available to help reduce the appearance of cellulite and you can help matters yourself by cleansing your system, reducing your weight and fat and getting active.

Tips to reduce the Appearance of Cellulite

  • Maintain a normal weight. If losing weight, do so gradually.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Avoid unnecessary medication, like diet-pills, sleeping pills, laxatives and diuretics.
  • Reduce your intake of coffee, alcohol, high-fat foods and highly processed foods.
  • Eat plenty of fibre.
  • Drink plenty of water and eat regular daily helpings of fresh fruit.
  • Take regular vigorous exercise
  • Try rubbing a good quality aloe vera cream into the cellulite-affected areas

 


<<Back