Foods That Burn Cellulite

Cellulite is an aesthetically displeasing feature of the skin that looks like dimples or has an 'orange peel' or 'cottage cheese' appearance, according to a 2006 "International Journal of Cosmetic Science" article. Cellulite is probably one of the most evasive skin conditions in terms of understanding its true cause. Theories about the development of cellulite are diverse, but it is connected in some way to the vascular and lymphatic systems. Foods that are deemed beneficial for reducing cellulite seem to have potent nutrients that improve function of those systems.

Grassfed Beef and Dairy

Grassfed cattle are animals that have been raised consuming pasture, which is their natural source of food. The meat and dairy from these animals has a completely different profile of fats than meat and dairy from cattle that have been raised on corn or soy. The Eat Wild website notes that this type of beef and dairy contain exclusively high levels of the good fat, conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA. CLA has many health benefits including cancer prevention and increasing lean muscle mass. According to the 2006 "International Journal of Cosmetic Science, CLA is proven to improve the signs of cellulite. CLA is noted by the article to improve skin cell differentiation, reduce inflammation and increase the ground substance that builds connective tissue and collagen, all of which are mechanisms that are believed to improve cellulite appearance.

Cranberries

Cranberries are powerful antioxidants, potent diuretics, and according to nutritionist and author, Anne Louise Gittleman, M.S. in her bestseller book, "The Fat Flush Plan," they can improve the presence of cellulite. Cranberries have antioxidants belonging to the category known as flavonoids, which can improve the strength of connective tissue and assist the functioning of the lymphatic system. She suggests that the cranberries be consumed as a juice-water combination in 48 to 64 oz. doses per day. The water-juice combination is purposed to activate the kidney and lymphatic system so that toxins and fat can be sufficiently moved from the body, thereby reducing the appearance of cellulite.

Soy

Soy is a commonly eaten food in Asian cultures. It is gaining more popularity with health enthusiasts all over the world, due to its well-documented contribution to the lower rates of heart disease and cancers in Asian countries. In an interview with Dole Nutrition Institute, physician and dermatology specialist, Dr. Howard Murad, M.D. also identifies soy as highly effective food for reducing cellulite. Dr. Howard Murad, M.D. is the author of the book, "The Cellulite Solution." In the interview, he notes that soy is an impressive source of the fatty acid known as lecithin. Because of the effects of dehydration and its contribution to the presence of cellulite, lecithin is discussed as an important aspect of the cell membrane. Soy as a source of lecithin assists the body in absorbing and retaining water from the fluids taken into the body.