Cellulite is basically the excess of fat deposited in the subcutaneous tissue. It mostly affects women irrespective of age and race. The deposition of cellulite is around the hips, buttocks and the thighs. Cellulite deposition gives the skin in the affected areas a very characteristic dimpled appearance. Besides the hormonal and genetic factors, poor circulation of the lymph which carries waste products and toxins from the different tissues to the blood also contributes to cellulite formation.



Though it is not a disease state, cellulite deposition calls for attention by many women due to cosmetic reasons. Many methods are now available for removal and control of cellulite. Here are few tips on how cellulite can be avoided.

1. Diet: Eat a balanced diet, one which is rich in proteins and fiber along with complex carbohydrates.

• 5 to 6 small meals each day is better than having three large meals.

• A high percentage of the food eaten must be in the form of fresh raw fruits and vegetables as well as brown rice, seeds and bean sprouts.

• Some herbs like dandelion enhance the liver's ability to break down waste products and toxins. It also aids the kidneys to filter blood of these waste products and toxins. It can be consumed with salads or cooked like spinach.

2) Water Intake: This helps in removal of waste products and flushes away toxins from the blood through the kidneys.

• Drink plenty of fluids in the form of water (8 to 10 glasses of water) or fruit juices.

• One cup of water with freshly squeezed lemon and a spoonful of honey taken early morning on an empty stomach is a simple natural remedy for cellulite control

• Avoid the use of caffeine containing beverages and alcohol.

3) Regular exercises go a long way in keeping cellulite away and also keeping you looking young and healthy.

• Cardiovascular exercises and aerobic exercises like jogging, cycling. walking, treadmill exercises reduce cellulite accumulation. In addition they also strengthen the connective tissue in the body which in turn reduces cellulite.

• Weight training and targeted exercise help in burning calories and strengthening the muscle tone. The increased body temperature causes the pore size of the skin capillaries to widen which in turn improves the blood circulation and pumping of the lymph from the legs upwards is also improved.

• Avoid sitting or standing in one place for a long time.

4) Stop smoking: Medical experts say that smoking cripples the metabolism of individual cells in the body. This destruction indirectly contributes to abnormal fatty acid metabolism and thereby cellulite deposition.

5) Essential oils: A firm massage improves the circulation of blood and lymph. Massage with essential oils is a simple home remedy that stimulates the skin helps in improving its appearance. This not only improves the blood circulation, but also removes dead skin cells and improves the appearance of the skin. Some oils that can be used for this purpose are cedar wood oil, cypress oil, rosemary oil, patchouli oil and sweet vegetable oils like sweet almond oil and olive oil.

Small steps taken to improve your lifestyle go a long way in avoiding cellulite formation.

Related Articles: