While cellulite is partly genetic, the cottage cheese aspect of cellulite can be the result of hormonal problems, diet, lifestyle choices, and toxins. Even some people with relatively no fat have cellulite lurking on their thighs or hips. While you could spend hundreds of dollars on the latter topic as a chemical solution that may or may not do any good, you can also improve the condition of your skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite naturally, with food and folk remedies.
7 natural remedies to reduce cellulite
It is estimated that 85% of adult women have cellulite, and despite its prevalence, we still have much to learn about the aesthetic issue. Cellulite is fat stored just below the surface of the skin.
It has a unique appearance, like the dimple surface of an orange peel or cottage cheese. It is more common in women and usually appears after puberty. For many people, it is a source of extreme shame.
What are some of the most common causes of cellulite
- Pregnancy due to the hormonal changes mentioned above.
- Aging decreases your energy needs, that is, the amount of food energy needed to balance energy expenditure to maintain body size, body composition. This can result in increased fat reserves, especially if your intake is greater than what your body needs.
- Overweight produces an excess of fat deposited in the fat compartments. This improves the appearance of cellulite.
- Poor circulation causes collagen fibers not to receive enough blood. The blood carries oxygen, healthy nutrients and frees all cells in the body of toxic waste. Without adequate blood flow, the fibers contract, thicken and leave an irregular appearance.
- Lack of activity means you are living a sedentary lifestyle. This leads to poor circulation and less blood reaching the fibers, tissues, vessels and organs of the body.
Try some of these natural solutions to at least minimize the appearance.
1. Eliminate toxins
Your body is bombarded with toxins. The accumulation of toxins comes from decades of exposure to packaged foods, refined sugars, chemicals, pesticides, contaminants inside and outside your home, the pharmaceutical industry (and the list goes on).
Needless to say, most people have the need for a cleansing or removal of toxins from the body. But what does this have to do with cellulite?
The body stores toxins in fat to help minimize the amount of toxicity to which vital organs are exposed. Cellulite dimples are also full of toxins.
Toxicity accumulated in the body over the years will be recorded in cellulite (and a lot of other unpleasant symptoms).
So what should you do to reduce cellulite? Simple: eliminate toxins and prevent further accumulation of toxins.
2. Tomatoes and tomato paste
Tomatoes are extremely rich in lycopene, which can prevent the breakdown of collagen in the skin. Tomato paste is very rich in lycopene. However, if you opt for pasta, prepare yourself a homemade in a glass container to avoid toxic BPA.
Here you can find an easy and very healthy recipe to make your homemade tomato paste.
3. Coconut oil and dry brushing
A very popular combination among home remedies for cellulite is to brush dry skin while moisturizing it with extra virgin coconut oil. To brush dry skin properly, it starts on lymph node areas like the armpits/groin, then move on to the outer regions.
It always moves towards the heart, except when you brush the dry skin of the buttocks area. Brushing dry skin is so effective because it strengthens the epidermis and helps the disintegration of the toxic material that makes up cellulite.
4. Drink more water for cellulite reduction
Hydration is critical to overall health, from digestion to the healthy appearance of the skin and texture. Being fully hydrated the body can soften the surface of the skin.
Try to eat foods with higher water content, such as melons, cucumbers, watermelon and leafy greens. Not only are these foods high in water, but they are also low in calories – they help you lose weight and control fat retention. Here you can see a smoothie for body hydration.
5. Apple cider vinegar
Mix the apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water and a little honey and rub on the necessary areas, then rinse with warm water. You may not be able to get rid of cellulite forever, but this should help reduce the appearance.
Also, try to make a body wrap: Mix water in equal parts, and then rub into the area. Then, wrap the areas in plastic paper and a warm towel for 1 hour, then rinse. In addition to being used for cellulite reduction, the benefits of apple cider vinegar is overwhelming – don’t skip this potential solution!
6. Ginkgo Biloba
This plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. One of the many health benefits of Ginkgo Biloba is to encourage good circulation.
Good circulation means healthier skin and a more uniform skin texture. Improving circulation will allow a more effective transfer of stored fat from cellulite into muscle tissue, allowing it to be burned and used as energy.
7. Green Tea
Green tea can speed up your metabolism and help burn fat. However, the catechins found in green and black tea can also reduce insulin resistance.
Drinking three cups a day can boost energy and help you burn an extra 80 calories in the next 24 hours. It is advisable to try tea in the morning instead of coffee.
8. Massage
If you can’t afford one, do it yourself. Massages increase blood flow to the area. Although it does not reduce cellulite, it brings new blood flow, eliminates toxins in the area and improves the appearance of the dimple.
Taking a leg massage after getting out of the shower works wonders and feels great. Coconut oil moisturizes and has a gentle sliding effect on the skin.
Cellulite can make anyone feel self-conscious, or consider making big expenses, but you know you don’t have to. The above solutions cost very little money and are accompanied by countless health benefits. Don’t spend on more expensive and “harmful” creams before trying some of these solutions.
And, of course, with any health issues, always consume lots of healthy foods, avoid/reduce stress and exercise regularly. This will also help reduce cellulite and improve your overall health.