Cellulite is a condition that sends the afflicted, mostly women, on a search for a remedy. This condition is characterized by body fat that gives a dimpled or bumpy appearance to the thighs and buttocks. Factors increasing the appearance of cellulite include genetics, activity levels, age, hormones and diet. While there are many treatments and products claiming to remove cellulite, according to Dr. Len Kravitz, most claims are exaggerated. However, diet and exercise can play a part in diminishing the appearance of cellulite.
Causes of Cellulite
Cellulite is an uneven distribution of fat occurring mostly in women. Accumulated fat is pushed through the connective tissue, causing it to look like bumps pushing out from the skin's surface. Aging skin that is losing its elasticity is more prone to cellulite. Wearing restrictive clothing and general inactivity can lead to circulation problems that increase the appearance of cellulite. Genetics also play a role in developing this condition. Cellulite most often appears in the buttocks and thighs because that is where body fat typically accumulates. Women are especially likely to accumulate body fat in these areas.
Exercise
According to the American Council on Exercise, a combination of decreased fat and increased muscle can reduce the appearance of cellulite. Cardio training will elevate heart and lung capacity and burn increased amounts of calories. When the amount of calories burned is higher than the amount of calories eaten, excess body weight and fat are reduced. Weight training workouts, particularly squats and lunges, will increase muscle mass and muscle tone in your buttocks and thighs. Increased muscle tone, combined with decreased body fat, will help improve the appearance of your buttocks and thighs.
Protein Shakes
Protein is a nutrient that enhances muscular development and helps your body recover from a workout. Protein shakes with low amounts of fat can be part of a nutrition program designed to fuel your body, without adding excess calories to your diet. Consuming 500 less calories than you burn every day will result in a 1-pound weight loss over a seven-day period.
Suggested Guidelines
Gradual weight loss, through diet and exercise, gives your skin a chance to retain some elasticity and tighten up as fat is reduced. Perform three- to five-weekly cardio workouts for 20 to 60 minutes, and two weekly resistance training workouts for your buttocks and thighs, to achieve this goal. Your daily protein should be between 20 to 25 percent of your total food intake.
References
- Dr. Len Kravitz: Cellulite: Everything You Wanted to Know and More; Len Kravitz
- Mayo Clinic: Cellulite; Mayo Clinic Staff; 2011
- "Scientific American": Is Cellulite Forever?; Katherine Harmon; 2009
- "ACE Get Fit": Exercise and Cellulite
- Bodybuilding.com: The Benefits of Protein Shakes; David Galanis
- Harvard School of Public Health: "The Nutrition Source": Protein
Member Comments