Cellulite - How to fight it.

Cellulite is the term used to describe areas of the body where the surface has developed a dimpled, pitted, or lumpy surface appearance much like orange peel. It is really more a life-style problem than a health problem.

Most women find they have a problem with cellulite at some point in their lives. Although it can be unsightly, cellulite is not thought to be a medical problem or an illness. Cellulite is the term used to describe areas of the body where the surface has developed a dimpled, pitted, or lumpy surface appearance much like orange peel. It is largely found in the thigh and buttock areas, sometimes on the arms, breasts, hips and abdomen.

Often referred to as the orange peel syndrome or the mattress phenomenon, it is thought to affect around 80 per cent of women. It is mainly women who are affected by this problem as they have a thinner outer skin layer than men. Women also have thinner underlying levels of dermis and their subcutaneous layer has a higher proportion of fat cells than those of men.

There is still much that is unknown about cellulite and why some people have it and others don't. One theory is that it is related to the total number of fat cells we are born with; and it may also be related to nutrition during pregnancy. Analysis has shown that cellulite is not a unique substance in the body; it is composed of normal fat cells. A combination of hormone changes, skin structure and fat deposits lead to cellulite. Poor blood circulation may be responsible for an accumulation of the waste products of fat metabolism that thicken and harden into pockets of fat; causing the classic dimpled appearance. Although it occurs in people of all shapes and sizes, cellulite is undeniably more of a problem in those who are overweight, and unfortunately tends to worsen during pregnancy.

Exercise and weight loss are the main tools in our fight against this problem. Physical activities such as swimming, cycling, skipping and brisk walking will all help. Gradually increase whatever form of exercise you do and build up a regular routine. There is no quick or easy solution with cellulite, but persistence will eventually pay off. Any weight loss should be gradual, more a case of sensible eating and cutting out sweets, cakes, sugar, biscuits and fizzy drinks. Avoid high-fat and high-salt foods. Do not try to crash diet and lose weight too quickly as this can cause a worsening of the condition. Drink lots of water to flush out toxins. Stimulate blood circulation of the skin by brushing with a soft brush or loofah in the bath or shower.

Remember, getting rid of cellulite is a long, slow process. You will see changes gradually; usually the skin starts to feel better before it looks better. It is really more a life-style problem than a health problem.