Cellulite on the Thighs & Buttocks

Cellulite on the Thighs & Buttocks
Photo Credit legs image by Kurhan from Fotolia.com

Cellulite is the result of fatty tissue being trapped in connective tissue under the skin. Cellulite creates a dimpled and lumpy look, and the legs and buttocks often tend to be prime targets of cellulite. Reducing cellulite takes a dedication to lifestyle change.

What is Cellulite

According to the Mayo Clinic, about eight out of 10 women have cellulite on their legs and glutes. Cellulite is the result of fat cells accumulating and pushing up against the skin. The fat gets trapped between the connective tissue and the underlying muscle. This creates an uneven surface, giving a lumpy appearance on the legs and thighs.

Considerations

Cellulite is common in women, and even lean individuals can have cellulite. However, some women have increased odds for getting cellulite. Genetics plays the biggest role in whether a woman develops cellulite, but stress, inactivity and hormones can play a role in the development of cellulite.

Effects

Nutrition plays a role in preventing and getting rid of cellulite from the thighs and buttocks. The website Health Guidance suggests that eating amino acids will help build the skin's store of collagen and elastin, helping to the reduce the appearance of cellulite. Beans, whole grains, fruits and vegetables are all healthy foods that contain amino acids. Consuming protein is also recommended to reduce the appearance of cellulite because it can reduce the stores of fat under the skin and help firm up muscles.

Exercise

Exercise can help to reduce cellulite because toned muscles can reduce the appearance of cellulite. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, it is recommended to do cardio activity five days a week for 30 minutes. Prevention Magazine suggests that exercising will increase the blood circulation to your thighs, helping to keep the connective tissue healthy and remove excess fluids. Regular exercise will also help to shed fat in the hips and thighs and in turn you will have less of it to press up against the skin giving the appearance of cellulite. Squats and lunges are effective exercises that target the legs and glutes.

Other Treatments

Massage can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite simply because it promotes blood circulation. Laser treatments are also an effective way to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Lasers can provide temporary treatment but can not get rid of cellulite completely. Creams can also help to reduce cellulite because they promote caffeine activation on the skin causing more blood flow.

References

Article reviewed by Kirk Ericson Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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