Cellulite is a name commonly given to fat deposits that appear beneath the surface of your skin in association with the connective tissue called collagen. Because of its anatomical structure, cellulite can appear in thin, average or overweight individuals, and once it develops, there may be no effective method of eliminating its presence.
Cellulite Formation
Collagen fibers connect your skin to deeper muscle tissue, the Mayo Clinic reports. Between these collagen and muscle layers, everyone also has a layer of fat. The process of cellulite formation begins when collagen breaks down, stretches, pulls tight or otherwise loses its normal shape, according to website Medline Plus. Once this tissue alteration occurs, pockets of fat cells can bulge through your collagen layer and create the classic rippled, or cottage cheese, appearance of cellulite.
Cellulite Locations
Common locations on your body for cellulite formation include your buttocks, hips and thighs, Medline Plus reports. The Mayo Clinic lists additional potential locations for cellulite formation that include your lower abdomen, upper arms or breasts. In some cases, you may only notice cellulite if you pinch the skin of an affected area. In other cases, cellulite may visibly disrupt the everyday appearance of your skin.
Cellulite Factors
Because everyone has the fat layer associated with cellulite formation, you can develop cellulite regardless of your weight or other physical characteristics, Medline Plus explains. Still, certain factors may increase your chances of developing cellulite, including genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, slow body metabolism, dehydration, consumption of a generally poor diet and consumption of fad diets that stray from basic nutritional principles.
Prevention
Generally speaking, you will not be able to eliminate cellulite once it forms, Medline Plus notes. In fact, the condition is so common that most medical professionals classify it as a normal occurrence rather than a medical disorder. However, you can take steps to reduce your chances of developing cellulite in the first place, Medline Plus says. Potential options here include exercising regularly, not smoking, keeping your body properly hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight that does not substantially increase or decrease, and eating a diet composed largely of vegetables, fruit and fiber.
Reduction
You may be able to reduce your cellulite levels by lowering your body fat percentage, according to the Nemours Foundation. Generally speaking, you will gain the greatest possible cellulite reduction from regular physical activity that includes both strength training and aerobic exercises. In some cases, you may also benefit from lowering your calorie intake. However, before taking this step, you should consult your doctor to see if calorie reduction is appropriate or healthy for your particular circumstances.
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