Healthy Living Prevents Cellulite

Cellulite affects women throughout the world-upwards to 90% of women have cellulite and very little men are affected by it. It is a condition that occurs when the skin becomes dimpled and occurs after puberty. In contrast to popular belief, cellulite is not related to being overweight. Women who are normal or even under weight can have cellulite on their bodies and it may even be more apparent because of their small frame.

Cellulite is more apparent in women because of their hormones and the composition of fat cells combined with connective tissues which hold them in place. A woman’s connective tissues are not very flexible, so as they gain weight their fat cells enlarge and bulge towards the skin’s surface. This gives the appearance of dimples or cellulite. Estrogen seems to contribute to cellulite and women who take oral contraception with high levels of estrogen may suffer from this condition more frequently. Other hormones such as insulin, adrenaline, thyroid hormones, and prolactin have also been associated with cellulite. Genetics may also predetermine you to develop cellulite. Even if you are predisposed to have cellulite there are certain precautions that you can take to prevent or reduce the severity of it. Eating a healthy, nutrient rich diet can halt the development of cellulite. High amounts of fat, salt, carbohydrates, or too little fiber can stimulate the production of cellulite. Smoking, lack of exercise, and sitting and standing for long periods of time without moving can also contribute to cellulite. Furthermore, high stress lifestyles can increase the production of certain hormones which are associated with cellulite.

There are many cellulite treatment options available on the market today, though many of them do not work. There are creams, gels, massage treatments, lasers, and even pills that claim to get rid of cellulite. What works best is good old fashioned exercise, eating right, and living a healthy, stress free lifestyle.