Cellulite cannot be considered a disease or disorder, but does make a difference to overall figure. Cellulite is basically fat tissue present in subcutaneous layer of skin and has constricting band of connective tissue. It can look ugly and cause embarrassment if present in excess. Ladies with excess cellulite would be unable to wear trendy fashionable dresses.

How does cellulite form?

Our muscles are padded with fatty connective tissue held together by a network of fibers. Body fluids clean the fatty tissue. If the process slows down due to any reason, waste material accumulates and thickens into gelatin-like substance. This then gradually becomes hard and forms immovable pockets.

Causes of cellulite formation

Hormonal changes at puberty, pregnancy and menopausal can cause the cellulite formation.

Crash diets gives rise to high risk of cellulite formation.

Anomalies, of enzymes or hormones like estrogen increases fat storage. Heredity could also be one of the reasons.

Blood supply is reduced due to lack of physical exercise and this promotes fluid retention in cellulite rich areas.

Water helps the body to remove waste effectively.

Smoking weakens the skin, causes constriction of capillaries and damages the connective tissue causing dimpling effect of cellulite.

Steps to reduce or eliminate cellulite

Cellulite can be eliminated gradually by detoxifying the body and speeding up of metabolism.

Avoid eating saturated and hydrogenated fatty foods. Drink a minimum of 10 glasses of water everyday. Indulge in regular exercise and other physical activities. Maintain a healthy diet and have at least 3 square meals a day. Never skip breakfast. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet.

Difference between fat and cellulite

Human skin has an even layer of fat to keep it naturally soft and pliable. The coating however varies from person to person depending on genetics, weight and lifestyle. The fat layer is meant to insulate the body and cushion the muscles, organs and nerves.

Cellulite being lumpy provides no insurance whatsoever. It occurs only in certain areas like the thighs, abdomen, buttocks and breasts for women and on the neck and abdomen for men.