Skip to content 
Lipodystrophy, “cheese rind”, “orange peel syndrome” – cellulite has many names, and their unpleasant sound emphasizes the severity of the problem. It does not cause negative feelings, does not become inflamed, and does not interfere, but it significantly disrupts the aesthetic appearance of the skin. Expert Olha Stepanova talks about the causes of cellulite and gives some tips for dealing with this manifestation, including a nutritionist’s menu, care options, and daily activity.
What is cellulite and is it safe?
Cellulite is a change in the structure of the skin, characterized by the appearance of visible bumps and dimples on the surface (usually on the sides, thighs, abdomen and buttocks).
Cellulite occurs when fat cells in the tissues beneath the skin become enlarged and the structure of the tissue changes. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as hormonal changes, unhealthy lifestyle, lack of movement, poor diet, genetic factors, and others.
The history of cellulite research is quite complicated, as this term has only been used in society for the last few decades. However, it is known that it was already mentioned in scientific publications in the mid-20th century.
In the 1920s, cellulite was described as a completely new and unknown problem, and in the 30s, doctors offered various treatments, including vacuum massage and various creams.
Over the following decades, many studies have been conducted to investigate the causes of cellulite and to develop treatment and prevention methods. Today, cellulite is a fairly common manifestation that worries many people. It is not dangerous to health, but it can lead to the following problems:
- the appearance of visible bumps and dimples on the skin surface can cause aesthetic discomfort and lead to dissatisfaction with your appearance;
- as a result of the aesthetic problems associated with cellulite, self-esteem can be reduced and psychological well-being can be affected;
- The aforementioned factors can trigger a “chain reaction” that will negatively affect the entire body;
- In severe cases, cellulite can lead to limited mobility and pain in the tissues where it is located.
- cellulite can be associated with a decrease in blood circulation and oxygen supply to tissues, which can pose a risk of developing other diseases.
Unfortunately, cellulite is not a temporary problem. The increased number of fat cells that are located between the skin layer and the muscles cannot “melt” by itself. You have to fight against it.
“Cellulite most often affects women,” says the nutritionist, “Up to 90% of them show pronounced signs of cellulite at certain periods of their lives. In men, the problem manifests itself much less frequently, because the collagen fibers in their skin cross, which makes the tissue denser.”
Causes of cellulite: age-related changes or an SOS signal from the body?
Cellulite is a condition in which the fat cells under the skin begin to expand and the collagen fibers surrounding them become less elastic. Together, this leads to “explosions” of fat cells and the release of their contents into the surrounding tissue. These are some of the main causes of cellulite:
- genetic factors. Genetics can play an important role in the development of the problem, as the presence of certain genes can affect the structure of tissues, including collagen fibers; Cellulite is a condition in which the fat cells under the skin begin to expand and the collagen fibers surrounding them become less elastic. Together, this leads to “explosions” of fat cells and the release of their contents into the surrounding tissue. These are some of the main causes of cellulite:
- nutrition. An improper diet can stimulate the development of cellulite, as excess calories, high fat and sugar consumption contribute to the excessive accumulation of fat cells;
- hormone levels. Increased levels of estrogen, increased insulin, and an imbalance of thyroid hormones can trigger the development of cellulite;
- bad habits: smoking, drinking alcohol, and excessive coffee consumption impair blood circulation and metabolism, which can lead to cellulite.
Other reasons that can be direct or indirect catalysts include hormonal changes in the body, pregnancy, slow metabolism, sedentary lifestyle, and dehydration.
Methods of solving the problem: advice from a nutritionist
“Despite the popularity of many products, unfortunately, there is no universal remedy for cellulite. But a comprehensive treatment will help to reduce the visible manifestations, and eventually completely solve the problem,” says nutritionist Olga Stepanova.
Dry cleaning
This is one of the techniques that activates lymph and blood flow, helps remove dead cells, activates the growth of new ones, improves metabolism, and helps to eliminate toxins. To do this, you will need a body brush with natural bristles or vegetable loofah. Rub the entire body, except for the mammary glands, as well as the areas under the knees and armpits. The best time to do this is before the shower, daily for five minutes. Start from the bottom and gently work your way up, making circular motions.
Training
The nutritionist recommends mandatory physical activity. The best workouts are those that combine strength exercises with anaerobic exercises. Most attention should be paid to problem areas.
Nutritionist’s menu and lifestyle changes
A healthy diet is at least necessary to maintain a normal weight and prevent new problems. The nutritionist’s menu is simple: you should reduce the consumption of sweet and processed foods, as they contribute to the accumulation of fat and toxins. More attention should be paid to vegetables, herbs, and fruits. They should be the basis of meals and snacks.
The use of anti-cellulite drugs
These can be topical products (creams). Most of them are based on caffeine. It has a simple task: to activate blood flow around the problem area and promote the removal of excess moisture.
There are also anti-cellulite products with retinol: they lead to a thickening of the outer layer of the skin, but the result will become noticeable after about six months of daily use, and the skin becomes very sensitive during this time.
“The best way to fight cellulite is to create an individualized comprehensive program,” says the nutritionist, “That’s why you should consult a specialist and, using personalized expert advice, get closer to solving the problem. It will be a difficult path, but the result is worth it.”
