Cellulite is a term for the formation of lumps and dimples in the skin. It affects both men and women, but it is more common in females, due to the different distributions of fat, muscle, and connective tissue. Between 80 and 90 percent of women may experience cellulite at some point in their lives.
Also known as orange-peel skin, cellulite occurs when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin. As fat cells accumulate and expand beneath skin, they push against tissue, causing an uneven appearance, commonly found on the hips, thighs, buttocks and back of arms.
While we may to battle cellulite with potions, lotions, creams and treatments, the most effective way of smoothing things over is actually by improving our diets.
A diet low in fat, smoking and alcohol cessation, and an active lifestyle may help reduce the incidence of cellulite.
Munch your way to a smoother-looking body with these nutritious picks.
Asparagus : Helps strengthen veins and capillaries and controls blood pressure. It's also a good source of vitamins A, B and C. Many A-listers swear by eating asparagus before appearing on the red carpet because of its fantastic anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce bloating while remaining low in calories. It’s also great for flushing out pesky toxins that can lead to cellulite, as it stimulates blood circulation.
Bananas : A good booster for blood vessels and great for assisting in healthy circulation, they're also a good source of potassium, vitamin B6 and magnesium. Potassium can help to prevent cellulite. Try chopping a large one into a fruit salad in the morning, or tucking in before exercise.
Berries : Blackberries and blueberries enhance collagen production, creating new skin tissue. They contain antioxidants, which break down fat attached to the connective tissue. This allows skin to keep fat beneath it at bay and not push forward and appear lumpy. Sprinkle a handful over your cereal in the morning, or enjoy as part of a low fat smoothie.
Broccoli : Contains alpha lipoic acid, which helps prevent the hardening of collagen caused by sugar. It's also a good source of selenium and calcium.
Citrus : All are excellent sources of vitamin C. Orange contain methoxylated bioflavonoids, which can improve circulation and strengthen capillaries.
Oily fish : Salmon, sardines, tuna, trout and bass are all low in fat and high in cellulite-fighting proteins and minerals. Also good sources of essential fatty acids.
An example is Salmon, which is rich in antioxidants, that helps to break down fat cells in cellulite. The omega-3 fatty acids reduce appetite and low-level inflammation and repair and strengthen skin tissue and fibers. This decreases the build-up of toxins inside blood vessels and improves circulation—the waste trapped in the tissues that push against skin filters out.
Pears : A good detoxifier, pears can help reduce the effects of pollutants in the body, assisting the lymphatic system. A good source of fiber and potassium, too.
Pineapple : Has an anti-inflammatory action in the body that can help fight fluid retention and aid in the healing of damaged collagen fibers. A good source of vitamin C, as well.
Spinach : High in vitamin A, which helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite because it aids the production of collagen – a protein that strengthens, smoothes and plumps out the skin. Swap it in for lettuce in a salad, or throw a handful into a hot meal at dinnertime.
Sunflower Seeds : A good source of vitamin E, potassium and zinc, as well as vitamin B6, a super lump-fighter. Also a natural diuretic, eliminating excess water and bloating that can make cellulite more visible.
Tomato : Tomatoes also get their cheery scarlet exteriors from circulation-stimulating lycopene. They, too, are rich in vitamin C, which helps to keep the skin firm and taut by aiding collagen production.
Water : One of the most common causes of cellulite, other than genetics, are the toxins we consume and inhale. These reduce the skin’s elasticity and slow the circulation, so we need to aid our body’s natural detox process and help to flush them out. Drinking plenty of water is essential for this, so make sure you drink the recommended eight glasses a day, and avoid toxin-rich alcohol and soft drinks.
Watermelon : Watermelon gets its beautiful ruby red colour from a particularly potent antioxidant called lycopene. This not only helps to improve blood circulation, therefore helping to smooth out cellulite over time, but can also protect against heart disease.
Source : medicalnews, womansday, glamour
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