Nebraska Refinance Counter
Health Column
I often get questions about cellulite. Cellulite is a term used to describe the dimpling of skin. Technically, this dimpling is caused by the protrusion of subcutaneous fat into the dermis, creating an undulating dermal-subcutaneous fat junction adipose tissue. In simpler terms, it is just fat, however, some more common and colourful descriptions of cellulite include orange peel syndrome, the mattress phenomenon, hail damage, and cottage cheese thighs.
A very high percentage of women (85-98%) display some degree of cellulite and it is most prevalent in caucasian females than other races. Research suggests there is a hormonal component to the presentation of cellulite as it is less often seen in males.
Cellulite is not necessarily related to being overweight as average and underweight people also get cellulite. Cellulite is harmless however it’s appearance is a cause of concern for some people, which brings me back to all those questions I get, mainly – How do we get rid of it?
Unfortunately there is no magical cure although there are many false claims on the market. The facts about cellulite are:
- Fat is fat – we all have it.
- There is no such thing as spot reduction – it is not possible to lose weight/fat/cellulite from just one area of the body.
- Creams/spa treatments/tables do not work – save your money!!
But do not dismay, there are some ways of decreasing and avoiding cellulite:
- Body brushing and massage can assist in circulation which may benefit the appearance of cellulite.
- Exercise will increase muscle tone and decrease overall body fat.
- Reduction in coffee, smoking, alcohol, high-sugar and high-fat diet will reduce the toxins in the body and therefore reduce cellulite.
- A diet high in fibre, complex carbohydrates, moderate protein and low in sugar and saturated fats will avoid cellulite, particularly if eating small regular meals and snacks.
- Reduction in stress will benefit the body.
- Drinking two litres (8 large glasses) of water a day will flush out toxins and improve skin texture.
So, as always, it comes back to looking after yourself with healthy eating and regular exercise.
Please email your questions or comments to me at nicki.brake@acu.edu.au.
Yours in health,
Dr Nicki Brake
Lecturer in Physical Education
School of Education, Mount Saint Mary campus, Strathfield, NSW
