A common misconception is that cellulite is a special type of tissue or fat. The truth is, cellulite is just the accumulation of excess body fat. If you have no interest in changing your eating habits but you want to get rid of cellulite, you need to investigate alternatives. Medical treatments and exercise can help to reduce your cellulite but you may not be able to get rid of it entirely.
Facts
Cellulite can show up anywhere on your body but is typically found on the arms, butt and legs. If you consume more calories through your diet than you burn with daily physical activity, your body can start to pack on excess weight. According to MayoClinic.com, cellulite is caused when connective tissue that connects the skin to muscle tissue pulls downward and fat cells group together and protrude upward toward the skin. These two opposing elements create the dimpled and bumpy appearance of cellulite.
Expert Insight
According to the American Council on Exercise, the most beneficial way to combat cellulite is through strength-training exercise, cardiovascular exercise and a healthy diet. These improvements to your lifestyle help to diminish excess body fat and promote a more lean, muscular figure. MayoClinic.com also recommends weight loss through dieting and exercise as the best way to get rid of cellulite.
Considerations
If you make no changes to your diet, you will need to ramp up your exercise program to prevent excessive fat from accumulating and more cellulite from forming. Participate in daily cardio exercise for at least 30 minutes at a moderate intensity. Examples of helpful cardio activities include running, swimming, step aerobics, rowing and cycling. Strength-training exercises build muscle tissue and help your body burn excess body fat. Train your entire body including your arms, legs, chest, back and stomach at least twice a week for 30 minutes. Choose exercises and weights that challenge your muscles with eight to 12 repetitions.
Medical Treatment
Medical massage and laser treatments are available to help reduce your cellulite. According to MayoClinic.com, laser therapy and radiofrequency systems are the best forms of medical therapy available to treat cellulite. Laser therapy uses a tissue massage in conjunction with a diode laser, while radiofrequency system uses tissue massage with infrared light.
Potential
Your body needs to maintain a certain amount of body fat for everyday functioning. As long as your body has any amount of fat it is possible for cellulite to exist. Complete cellulite removal may be impossible or near impossible, especially without any adjustments to your diet. Eating excessive sugar, fat and calories instead of focusing on natural, nutrient-dense foods can lead to weight and fat gain.
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