Sometimes there are little warning signs around the thighs when the skin starts not looking as smooth as before. Other times it comes without warning and is unstoppable. This is the infamous cellulite, which millions of women have to fight. But it can be prevented and its appearance avoided.
It's important to understand that there are certain times in life--such as during pregnancy or while on the pill--when there is a surplus of estrogen which can become a "cellulite factor." This overdose of female hormone leaves blood vessels porous and fragile, triggering the accumulation of liquids and toxins in the tissues--which is the main cause of cellulite according to the National Library of Medicine.
Certain illnesses such as frequent digestive problems can also play a large part, as they reduce cell oxygenation, leaving the blood saturated with waste materials that are difficult to expel and that end up accumulating in critical areas of the body.
Other conditions that contribute to its development include shortness of breath, constipation, liver problems and poor circulation, as cellulite gets established more easily in poorly irrigated tissue.
So it's time to make some lifestyle and habit changes. Cigarettes and stress are two allies of cellulite. Smoke negatively affects microcirculation, which is responsible for transporting nutrients through the capillaries. Stress can be a determining factor because anxiety and nervousness increase hormone production, leading to fragile capillaries and a stockpile of toxins in the tissues.
In terms of habits, it's pretty basic:
- Caffeine. Limit yourself to 1 caffeinated drink a day (coffee, tea, Coke).
- Alcohol. Alcohol helps increase fatty acid levels in the blood stream. Aside from increasing fat in areas where we least want it, alcohol also increases the risk of heart disease. If you can't eliminate it completely, limit what you drink to 1 beer, 1 glass of wine, or 1.5 ounces of liquors such as whiskey, rum and tequila.
- Stick to a diet low in saturated fats. Saturated fat is what we find in all animal-based products such as beef, chicken, sausages and dairy foods. Always choose skinless, lean cuts, and nonfat dairy products.
- Include enough fiber in your diet. Eat at least 2 fruits a day and 3 servings (3 cups) of vegetables.
- Control how much sugar and refined flour you get. Swap table sugar for sweeteners with no calories, such as Splenda, Equal, etc. Choose whole grain breads, rice and pasta.
- Avoid processed foods. They are high in sodium, which is responsible for water retention.
- Exercise regularly. Do at least 30 minutes a day of moderate aerobic activity, such as walking, dancing or jogging.
And remember that the worst mistake you can make when fighting cellulite is to make dinner the most important and biggest meal of the day.
These strategies will help you eliminate toxins from your body and lower fat, which are considered the main contributors to development of cellulite.
Always remember,foods that help you fight cellulite have 2 characteristics: they are low-calorie and are great diuretics. Some that should always be on your list include:
- Strawberries. Ideal for constipation and a powerful weapon against "orange peel" skin.
- Kiwi. Its high vitamin C content alleviates stress, it's a laxative and its high potassium content helps maintain hydration.
- Pineapple. It is unrivaled, helping with protein digestion, accelerating tissue repair, removing toxins and preventing water retention.
- Grapefruit. Acts as a purifier. Having grapefruit first thing in the morning before anything else for breakfast eliminates toxins that accumulate overnight.
- Fennel. A great diuretic.
- Celery. It has a calming, anti-stress effect.
- Carrots. High in beta-carotenes, which help soften the skin.
