Cellulite
What is cellulite?
Cellulite is the formation of skin depressions in the thighs, abdomen, hips, upper arms and buttocks. Triggered by the hormone estrogen, cellulite - also known as “orange peel skin” - affects women especially. This visually unappealing connective tissue weakness is mainly a cosmetic problem. However, accompanying toxins can lead to health problems in the legs (edema, spider veins, and varicose veins).
What causes cellulite?
An improper diet, obesity, lack of exercise, hormones (contraceptive pill), and not enough fluid intake are factors which can cause the unpopular dents.
How does cellulite come into being?
Cellulite is caused by cycle-related hormone changes. The subcutaneous (below the skin) adipose tissue becomes swollen, in some places more than in others, thus making the quilt-like structure of the fat lobules visible.
Cellulite - a purely female problem?
No, men can also be affected. However, cellulite is not as common in men as in women, due to the different proportion of fatty tissue and the higher estrogen levels in women.
Fight cellulite!
A proper diet, plenty of fluids, regular exercise and pulsating massages (to stimulate blood and lymph flow) are the best remedies against cellulite.
Under no circumstances should you try to battle cellulite with yo-yo diets. Similarly, heavy smoking, strong massage and the crossing ones legs (poor blood flow) should be avoided.
Sports, creams & anti-cellulite massages
Massages promote the reduction of water in tissue (similar to lymph drainage). The skin appears firmer and blood circulation is promoted. The treatment needs to be carried out regularly, if the massages are interrupted, the effect is lost quite quickly.
Sports such as hiking, biking, jogging and swimming, as well as specific abdomen, leg and buttock exercises strengthen the muscles of the problem areas. The skin thus becomes smoother and more elastic. Patience and perseverance are a must - 3 times per week for at least 30 minutes.
Creams can certainly be used as a supplement, but they are by no means an effective all-round miracle cure.
