Cellulite, the unsightly bumps that appear on the hips, thighs and buttocks, is a combination of dimpling, loose skin and swollen fat pockets. This problem is the results of internal dermatological fat accumulation and affects the vast majority of women and some men too. Other factors such as heredity factors, along with hormonal imbalance, lack of sleep, smoking, stress and overexposure to the sun could also be reasons for the appearance of cellulite.
According to American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery survey, nearly 90% of women and 10% of men have cellulite which prompts them to visit plastic surgery centers to find a solution. There are various cellulite treatments that smooth the skin using lasers and radiofrequency technologies. However, you can combat cellulite through natural methods. In fact, the food you eat can affect how much cellulite you have and so making changes to your diet can help.
Foods that cause Cellulite
Here are some of the worst foods for cellulite:
- White Carbohydrates: These do not provide any nutrients and are known as “empty calories”. The so-called “white” carbohydrates are highly processed foods that have been stripped of much of their nutrient value and can worsen cellulite. White sugar is an example of a white carb that contributes to the appearance of cellulite and being overweight. Healthy alternatives for white carbs include brown sugar, honey, maple syrup or natural fruit syrup (such as apples, pears etc)
- Margarine and Butter: Both these products have saturated fat. One study found that people who eat lot of butter and margarine had worse skin with cellulite.
- Processed Meat and Cheeses: These are high sodium foods that cause water retention and extra water weight which can make cellulite more visible.
- Fried Foods: Foods like French fries are high in fat content and may also have a lot of salt. Consuming large amounts of salt causes the body to retain water and cause the fatty pockets of cellulite to expand. It’s better to have grilled, steamed or baked foods.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Intake of alcoholic beverages does not directly cause cellulite formation but can worsen the condition as they tighten blood vessels in the skin. Alcoholic beverages also promote fluid retention and increase fat deposits in certain areas such as the thighs, arms, abdomen and glutes, as they contain “empty calories”.
Foods that can reduce cellulite:
Including these foods in your diet can help fight cellulite:
- Salmon: This fish is full of omega-3 fatty acids which protects the skin, and makes it stay smooth, moisturized, and healthy.
- Green tea: A powerful antioxidant drink, green tea helps speed up the metabolism and increases fat burn. Antioxidants are the body’s prime mechanism in fighting cellulite-worsening inflammation.
- Water with lemon: Always stay hydrated. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day is the best way to flush out free radicals and other toxins. Adding a simple lemon wedge in your drinking water would help to get rid cellulite by providing vitamin C which fights against damage from the sun and air pollution.
- Grapefruit: This citrus fruit has a fat-burning ability that can help your skin to look smoother. As it contains vitamin C, it also helps to build up collagen and repair skin which is important to fight against cellulite.
- Dark chocolate: Natural cocoa is full of antioxidants that help break down fat in cellulite and promote cell growth.
