The textbook "Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology," describes cellulite as a topical change in the skin's appearance. Cellulite occurs when fat cells push against connective tissue, giving the skin a dimpled, lumpy appearance rather than a smooth look. Cellulite is more common in women than in men. Though there are no foods that will completely rid you of cellulite, there are certain foods you can eat to help diminish its appearance.
Lean Meat
Lean meats are low in fat but high in protein. Proteins are the building blocks of muscle, so adopting a more protein-rich diet allows you to replace fat with more muscle. According to the textbook "Exercise Physiology: Energy, Nutrition and Human Performance," one muscle cell burns more calories at rest than does one fat cell, so a diet higher in lean meats and proteins is effective in getting rid of the appearance of cellulite. Examples of lean meat include chicken, turkey and fish.
Vegetables
Vegetables are another food group very beneficial in getting rid of the appearance of cellulite and fat. Since cellulite is more prone to be found in the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen, this is where you will most likely see a visible difference when your body adapts to a high-vegetable diet. Vegetables are high in fiber, a complex carbohydrate that helps you feel fuller longer. It takes the body longer to break down complex carbohydrates like fiber, which prevents your insulin levels from spiking and allows your body to burn fat rather than store it. There are a variety of vegetables you can choose from to incorporate into your daily diet, eating them as full meals, as snacks or as part of a larger meal.
Fruits
Fruits are like vegetables in that they are low in calories and rich in nutrients that keep your body's insulin levels in balance. When the body's insulin levels rise or drop, it has a direct affect on whether you will store or burn fat. Eating fruits allows you to feel fuller longer without creating a dramatic increase in insulin levels. This prevents your body from storing extra fat, which can in turn lead to the appearance of cellulite. Fruits are the most effective in getting rid of the appearance of cellulite when you consume them raw, rather than in the form of fruit juices or processed fruit snacks or desserts, which are likely to have preservatives and added sweeteners.
References
- "Exercise Physiology: Energy, Nutrition and Human Performance"; William D. McArdle, Frank I. Katch, Victor L. Katch; 2006
- "Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology, Fifth Edition"; Tina Sanders, Valerie Scanlon; 2000
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