Cottage cheese can be good for you, but most people would agree it isn’t a good look on your thighs or bottom. Cellulite happens when fat pockets push against connective tissue. The result is small bulges that produce the dimpled effect we love to hate. If you have cellulite – and if you’re a woman, chances are you do, unlike men who have a different pattern of connective tissue, which doesn’t produce the same effect – you will be glad to know you are in good company. Most women, and even some girls, regardless of size struggle with cellulite. There are professionally administered remedies that could set you back thousands of dollars, but results are mixed. Before you pile more debt on that credit card, try these at home remedies to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Build Muscle
Cellulite is more noticeable when the fat to muscle ratio favors fat. Consider lower body weight training and resistance exercises to build lean muscle. Alternate your weight training with interval exercises (moderate exercise interspersed with brief periods of vigorous exercise) to burn body fat more efficiently.
Modify Your Diet
Opt for foods that limit, as well as flush away, toxins in your body. You also want to go for high quality, nutrient dense food at least most of the time. Think fiber, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Reduce or eliminate your intake of alcohol, saturated fat, sugars, processed foods and the like.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water can help counteract the appearance of cellulite by plumping up the collagen in your skin. It may also help you eat less as hunger and thirst signals sometimes get crossed. Water also helps move waste and toxins through the body more efficiently. There are two camps of thinking on the role of toxins in cellulite. One camp says cellulite is simply a buildup of fat. The other side says toxins are at least partially to blame. No matter which side is right you can’t go wrong with drinking plenty of water.
Get Enough Sleep
You have probably heard that when you are under rested you are more likely to over snack. Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each evening. Getting enough is a really easy and important way to improve your overall health and even your appearance.
Try Massage
The jury is out on this strategy but as with water, it can’t hurt. The idea is that improved circulation can reduce the appearance of cellulite. Stimulate your skin and improve circulation with massage, brushes, a loofah or even a towel.
Although cellulite strikes women and girls across the age spectrum, older women usually struggle the most. We lose muscle as we age, which contributes to the appearance of cellulite. Take heart, though. Exercise can help. And even if you don’t get rid of your cellulite completely, you have the wisdom of your years to remind you that beauty is about far more than smooth thighs.