Cellulite was first described in 1920 by French scientists Alquir and Paviot. It's a condition caused by skin deterioration. Hormones and genetics are predisposing factors to cellulite; as a result, specific areas in the skin become easily damaged. Cellulite results when the dermis gets damaged, loses water and weakens. This allows buoyant fat cells to move closer to the surface and become visible as skin irregularities, lumps and dimples.
Misconceptions
Traditional methods focusing on weight loss strategies to treat cellulite don't work. Cellulite is a cellular and dermal problem. Cellulite can affect any woman regardless of body weight; it's not caused by too much fat in the body. The texture of cellulite is caused by several factors, including blood vessel disruption, damage caused to the dermis, dehydrated cells and a buildup in "wasted water," thinning of the epidermis and a movement of swollen fat cells closer to the skin's surface.
Development Stages
There are four stages to cellulite development. It starts deep in the dermal layer, where damage to the dermis and onset of cellulite cannot be visibly seen. In the initial stage, fluid accumulates outside of cells and results in "wasted" water. Further deterioration of the dermis progresses into Stage 2, in which a minimal orange peel texture becomes visible when the skin is pinched. Stage 3 marks the onset of internal damages to the synthesis of collagen and elastin. Fibrous bands known as septa begin to surround fat cells, resulting in a significant orange peel texture visible by pinching. The final stage of cellulite consists of hard nodules that cause pain and tenderness.
Prevention/Solution
Optimal nutrition for healthy cells and connective tissue is fundamental to prevention and cure. Cellulite begins when cells and connective tissue lack essential nutrients, causing them to lose their ability to stay hydrated and healthy. The problem originates from damage caused to blood vessels (the heart's connective tissue) interfering in the circulation of nutrients to tissue organs, including the skin. Nutrition allows for internal healing. A comprehensive approach integrates sources of antioxidants and essential fats along with the building blocks for elastin, collagen, and the body's matrix of glycosaminoglycans.
Expert Insight
According to Patrick Holford, one of Britain's leading nutrition experts and author of "The New Optimum Nutrition Bible," apples are exceptionally good at eliminating cellulite due to their richness in the phytochemical pectin. Holford recommends a three-day, apple-only fast to help strengthen the immune and detoxification systems of the body. Dr. Howard Murad, author of the book "The Cellulite Solution," advocates prevention rather than detox. As a renowned dermatologist and pharmacist, he emphasizes the use of topical creams in adjunct to nutritional and supplemental therapy to soften the skin and make it healthier, smoother, and better able to heal itself. Dr. Murad also recommends massage therapy, healing touch, and breathing work to decrease stress levels.
Considerations
Treat yourself beautifully from the inside out. According to Dr. Murad, a mind-body connection exists regarding all body systems. A study conducted in 1998 by doctors from Harvard University revealed a neuro-immuno-cutaneous-endocrine (NICE) connection through shared chemicals. Dr. Murad concluded that our state of mind has a direct impact on health and overall skin condition. A key cellulite-fighting strategy should integrate relaxation and self-care for optimal results.
References
- "The Cellulite Solution"; Howard Murad, M.D.; 2007
- "The New Optimum Nutrition Bible"; Patrick Holford; 2004
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