What Foods To Eat To Get Rid Of Cellulite?

Cellulite consists of fat deposits beneath the skin's surface. It tends to develop around the thighs, hips and buttocks and often causes a dimpling effect. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC, medical professionals view cellulite as a normal condition that can affect women and men. Genetic and lifestyle factors, such as diet, may contribute to cellulite. Consuming certain foods may help prevent or alleviate cellulite and promote overall health. For best results, a doctor's guidance is suggested.

Essential Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids are considered essential fats the body must obtain from food. According to "The Cellulite Solution: A Doctor's Program for Losing Lumps, Bumps, Dimples," by Howard Murad, M.D., essential fatty acids may help improve blood vessel health and lead to reduced appearance of cellulite.

Valuable food sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, lake trout, herring and sardines, and plant-based foods, including canola oil, ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil and walnuts. Omega-6 fatty acids are present in vegetable oils, including safflower, sunflower, corn, pumpkin and soybean oils.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables provide an assortment of vitamin, minerals and antioxidants, which help rid the body of disease-causing substances. They also provide rich amounts of dietary fiber and water, which support satiation or fullness between meals and are associated with healthy weight management.

The Mayo Clinic suggests weight loss in overweight individuals as a primary tool toward reducing and preventing cellulite. Replacing high-calorie, low-nutrient foods such as processed cookies, chips, pastries and candy with fruits and vegetables can lead to reduced calorie intake and support wellness during the weight-loss process. A variety of fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables is suggested for optimum benefits and results.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are grains that have not been stripped of valuable nutrients during food processing. They provide rich amounts of vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. The UMMC suggests a fiber-rich diet, inclusive of whole grains, for people wishing to avoid cellulite.

Valuable sources of whole grain nutrition include 100 percent whole grain breads and cereals, long-grain brown rice, wild rice, quinoa, cooked barley and air-popped popcorn. Replacing enriched breads, pasta and snack foods with whole grain equivalents may further support skin smoothness and weight management.

Lean Protein

Protein provides amino acids, the building blocks of lean tissue. Protein-rich foods have a mild impact on blood sugar levels and may help promote satiation and prevent excessive snacking between meals.

According to research published in the journal, "Nutrition & Metabolism" in 2008, obese individuals who consume a diet moderate in both protein and carbohydrates attain more weight loss and body composition improvements then those who adhere to a high-carbohydrate, low-protein diet. For this reason, overweight individuals with cellulite may benefit from a dietary regime that incorporates lean protein sources at most meals and snacks.

Optimum sources are low in saturated and trans fats and include low-fat dairy products, legumes, fish, tofu and skinless-white meat poultry.