Long-Term Cellulite Reduction

Long-Term Cellulite Reduction
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If you are beginning to find more and more fatty bumps in your skin, you'll want to get rid of this ugly new occurrence. Instead of opting for an expensive, quick fix treatment that may only provide temporary results, take steps to reduce cellulite for the long term. Understand what cellulite is, why it occurs and how you can get rid of this excess body fat, and determine which method is best for you.

Facts

Many people mistakenly think cellulite is a special type of tissue or fat, when it is really excess body fat. According to the American Council on Exercise, cellulite appears when fat accumulates and bulges through connective tissue beneath the skin. The pattern of the connective tissue causes the bumpy, "cottage cheese" appearance of cellulite. This dimpled fat can leave you uncomfortable about showing your skin, but cellulite is not a serious medical issue, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Significance

Cellulite reduction is important for physical and emotional well-being. Excess body fat is a key indicator of your physical fitness and health. Everyone has some level of body fat, but having a high amount can lead to increased risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Increased body fat levels can also decrease your cardiovascular and muscular endurance. The appearance of cellulite can be detrimental to your self-esteem, especially in the summer months or when you wear a swimsuit.

Medical Treatments

Surgery, and lotion and tissue massage therapies are advertised as long-term cellulite reduction methods. The difference in these therapies is the method used and the efficacy of the procedure. According to the Mayo Clinic, laser and radio frequency systems stand behind their claims and do provide results that last up to six months. These treatments combine tissue massage with infrared lights, laser energy or radio frequency to reduce cellulite.

Endermologie

Endermologie is a machine-guided deep tissue massage that reduces cellulite. According to CosmeticSurgery.com, endermologie is currently the only method of cellulite treatment approved by the FDA. During the procedure, the endermologie machine vacuums and massages areas affected by cellulite. This method helps to improve circulation, loosens fat and stimulates fat and connective tissues. The procedure can last for 30 to 60 minutes, and the best results come from repeated treatments every week for several weeks.

Diet and Exercise

Diet and exercise are vital to a healthy life as well as prevention and treatment of cellulite. According to the Mayo Clinic and the American Council on Exercise, diet and exercise are the most beneficial ways to reduce cellulite. Eating a well-balanced, low-fat diet in conjunction with daily activity can help you manage your weight and improve your muscle tone. As your body loses excess fat, the cellulite can start to fade away. Include foods from all of the food groups in your diet, by eating fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy products. Perform aerobic and strength training exercises five to seven days a week to engage in a well-rounded fitness program.

References

Article reviewed by Teresa Mullins Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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