If you are an unlucky someone who is plagued by cellulite, there is no doubt you have seen, read, or heard about magic creams and lotions claiming to rid your body of cellulite. Sadly, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that, "No amount of weight loss, exercise, massages, wraps, creams, supplements, or surgery has proven to effectively eliminate it once you have it." In fact, the Oregon Health and Science University argues that creams and lotions that claim to reduce size and appearance of cellulite "may simply be from constricting blood vessels and forcing water from the skin, which could be dangerous for people with circulation problems." However, there are things you can do starting today that are both healthy and natural to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Changing Your Lifestyle
Step 1
Stop eating processed carbohydrates. Processed carbohydrates such as bread, cereal, and pasta are typically higher in sugar than natural carbohydrates--fruits and vegetables. Excess carbohydrates, just as excess fat and protein, if not used, turns to fat. Fruits and vegetables also naturally contain fiber. The Harvard School of Public Health says "soluble fiber binds to fatty substances in the intestines and carries them out as a waste, thus lowering low-density lipoprotein, LDL, or bad cholesterol."
Step 2
Eat good fat and lean protein. Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman, certified nutritionist and doctor of holistic medicine, asserts, "Good fat is essential for both permanent weight loss and overall health." Good fats, such as those found in avocados, olive oil, nuts, and seeds actually aid in burning fat. The University of Georgia recommends that your daily fat value should be 30 percent of your overall calories. A diet with a balanced proportion of fat will keep you full and satisfied between meals, which reduces mindless snacking. The Institute of Medicine recommends that a person eats .8 grams of protein per kilogram, or per two pounds, of bodyweight to maintain muscle mass. Not eating enough protein could lead to the breakdown of your own muscle tissue, which is the exact opposite of what you want when attempting to rid yourself of cellulite.
Step 3
Exercise. By reducing your overall body fat, you reduce the appearance of cellulite. Exercise, both cardio training and strength training, are important components to aid body fat loss and cellulite reduction. Georgia State University states that strength training has proved to reduce body fat and increase lean body mass or muscle, in addition to offering numerous other health benefits.
Step 4
Determine your daily caloric needs. Use an online database such as the calorie calculator provided by Nutriweb to determine your needed calories per day. The calculator determines your caloric needs based on weight, gender, and typical daily activities. Make sure to meet your daily caloric needs so that way you are not burning muscle instead of fat.
Step 5
Track diet and exercise with a notebook. Keep a small notebook that can fit easily into your purse or pocket. Keep track of what you eat, when you eat, and when and how much you exercise. Bottom line when it comes to weight loss is calories in, calories out. Burning an extra 500 calories a day through exercise aids in burning one pound of fat per week.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not get frustrated if your cellulite does not improve the next day. Cellulite reduction calls for a lifestyle change. Make the change and reap the benefits.
- Consult a doctor or physician before beginning any new diet or fitness regimen.
Things You'll Need
- Pen
- Notebook
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cellulite- Overview
- The Oregon Health and Science University: Weight Loss Tips
- The Harvard School of Public Health: Carbohydrates- Good Carbs Guide the Way
- Dr. Ann Louise: Diet/ Detox
- The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service: Reducing Fat and Cholesterol
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