Cellulite Archives - Amazingy Magazine

Cellulite

What is cellulite:

Cellulite appears when there is a dense amount of fat cells under the skin which then press up visibly against the skin surface. This is what gives the cellulite it’s lumpy appearance. It is most noticeable in areas where fat cells are highly distributed like the upper arms, abdominal region, thighs and buttocks, and not exclusively for overweight people. While it’s not considered a serious health disease, cellulite has managed to cause social anxiety to many.

What causes cellulite:

Hormones: When oestrogen starts to decrease (which is usually triggered by age), circulation is reduced and nutrient to cell supply is decreased. This means that there is a gradual loss of collagen, which is the substance that keeps our skin tight and supple. Younger girls who are overweight and getting cellulite may have too much oestrogen. This oestrogen dominance is a result of overproduction in the body which is caused by exposure to xenestrogens. Xenestrogens have oestrogen-mimicking compounds and give mixed signals to the body’s endocrine system, causing weight gain. BPA and other industry plastics, parabens in skincare products, preservatives and additives in pesticides as well as herbicides are all example of xenestrogens.

Irregular connective tissue function: Low collagen and elastin compromises connective tissue health, causing the skin becomes fragile and sags.

Genetics: Some of our genetic predispositions will make us more susceptible to cellulite such as metabolic rate, distribution of fat and circulatory insufficiency.

Diet: Those who over indulging on unhealthy fats (like trans fats in deep fried food), highly processed carbohydrates (like cookies, cakes and pastries), and have little intake of plant based fibres and water have seen to have greater amounts of cellulite.

Lifestyle factors: Cellulite is seen to be higher in those who don’t exercise and who stand or sit for prolonged periods.

Clothing: Tight clothing like underwear that cuts into the skin limits blood flow will have higher chances of cellulite accumulation.

What to do against cellulite:

Toxins accumulate in fat cells, and the more we have, the more likely it is that they will show up as cellulite. First address long-term lifestyle changes that promote the natural detoxification process and improve overall health and appearance of the skin. Then work on short-term treatments to improving circulation through the manual practice of massaging and scrubbing to target affected areas.