HOW TO GET RID OF CELLULITE

The question “what causes cellulite” has long concerned women of all ages and ethnicities. But, as there is not just one cause, there is no one product to treat it.

what causes cellulite?

Hormones, circulation, lifestyle, and even medication are all contributing factors. Moreover, it has nothing to do with weight, as even thin women can get cellulite, but rather with the distribution of fat cells in a woman’s body. Usually, these are more likely to be found in the thighs, butt, and upper arms – the body areas where we naturally have a higher density of fat cells and a greater possibility of fluid congestion. Furthermore, as we age, our connective fibres weaken, causing the skin to provide less support, thus, allowing fat cells to become more visible.
As fluid retention is considered the main cellulite factor, it is essential to treat this first. By simply dry brushing our body and using a hydrating cream every day, we can very much improve the condition of our skin. This way, the cellulite will be reduced even if it doesn’t completely disappear.

what can I DO TO REDUCE CELLULITE?

Because cellulite is related to the entire body – it’s not simply a fat, diet, or skin issue – you’ll need a program rather than a product. Women frequently believe that treating cellulite requires going to extremes, but this is not true. Of course, it’s not as simple as scrubbing it away; it’s about understanding the right combination of often-simple things that may have a big impact. Make these “non-negotiables” a regular part of your life and you will soon see the results you were seeking.

drink water

As contradictory as it may sound, you should drink water to get rid of excess water. The reason is very simple and relies on our body’s chemistry. Our body produces an anti-diuretic hormone, the vasopressin, whose levels rise when we are dehydrated, causing the kidneys to retain water. Water is the best cleanser; thus, staying hydrated is essential. Drink plenty of water, whether from the tap or a bottle but if you have the choice, seek for mineral water low in dry residue and sodium.

EAT OAT BRAN

The husk that surrounds the grain is rich in protein and fibres, and it is able to absorb up to 20 times its own volume of water. Moreover, it aids in waste elimination and thus is good for bloating and water retention. Ideally, you should eat about one and a half tablespoons a day in yoghurt or on top of your morning cereals.

BODY BRUSH THE RIGHT WAY

Brushing your body with the right brush shouldn’t take more than 30 seconds a day; work up from the feet, doing quick, small flicks over the skin. Focus on the backs of the knees, inner thighs and below the breastbone, where the lymph nodes are.

START CUPPING

Cupping, also known as vacuum cupping, is an ancient Chinese and Middle Eastern therapy intended to release toxins from body tissue and organs. Today, cupping is used to move trapped fluids by placing a flexible silicone ‘cup’ on well-oiled skin and squeezing and releasing the “cup” on several body parts to create suction.
Start from the knee or elbow and sweep the vacuumed cup steadily upwards, then release the cup, and re-attach it to repeat the process.
It’s good to know that cupping works on a deeper level than body brushing and, ideally, should be done daily – yet twice a week is fine. Although it sounds time-consuming, once you get the hang of it, it’s simple. 10 sweeps up the thigh or upper arm are enough to get the lymph flowing. Cupping is most effective after a bath or shower when your skin is still warm. And you just need to treat cellulite-prone regions, not the entire body.

USE THE RIGHT PRODUCT

There are some specific ingredients like caffeine or pink pepper that has shown to work. Caffeine and pink pepper are stimulants able to get the fluid moving around the fat cells. Combined, they limit the formation of mature adipocytes (fat cells), prevent new lipids from accumulating and help get rid of existing fat. Also, Centella Asiatica combats loss of elasticity. The Anticellulite Cryo-gel formula (Collistar) contains all these ingredients as well as draining, vasoprotective plant extracts for optimum results. Use it after a workout session to enhance the effects/results or after your shower.
Extra tip: When applying your cream/gel to the areas of concern, use upward movements.

ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC EXERCISES TO GET RID OF CELLULITE?

As long as you move your body, you do good. It’s no secret that a sedentary lifestyle contributes significantly to cellulite. Whether you are running, walking, swimming or cycling, you streamline the muscles, which is what you want. Respectively, barre classes, Pilates and yoga are all excellent options. If you spend most of the day sitting, use a tennis ball to roll it under your feet and help the lymph move. Alternatively, pointing and flexing your feet does the same thing.

WHAT LIFESTYLE CHANGES COULD HELP get rid of cellulite?

Some simple steps in your daily routine could really help get rid of cellulite. Add magnesium or Epsom salts to your bath twice a week and stay in the tub for at least 20 minutes. This process helps manage fluid retention. Magnesium and potassium supplements also help regulate the fluid levels of your body. Also, alternating between warm and cold water is an excellent technique for puffiness. Use the showerhead to spray upwards from ankles to hips and do it regularly. Do not expect miracles in one day. Be consistent, and you will be amazed by how these simple changes in your everyday lifestyle can affect your body.

WHAT are the best foods for reducing cellulite?

Although cellulite is not a fat issue, eating the right way certainly helps. Foods rich in salt, sugar, carbs and even vegetable-based diets are hydrophilic and encourage water retention. Protein is the opposite, promoting the elimination of water via urine. So a protein-rich diet helps you lose weight without losing muscle or skin tone. But, conversely, a diet low in protein makes the body use up its own proteins, which affects your skin’s elasticity. Upping your protein and water makes a killer combination for treating cellulite. Salt and sugar both have a big effect on water retention – two teaspoons of salt are enough to retain one litre of water in your body’s tissues for up to two days.