We are still in the middle of the winter, all wrapped up in our puffer jackets and scarves, but in only two months’ time we will start planning our holidays and longing for a warmer climate. And when we get closer to the spring, one question seems to come up quite often: how do I get rid of my cellulite?
Cellulite, or orange peel skin, is a very common ailment that affects the majority of women at some point in their life. Poor diet choices, sedentary life, hormonal imbalances, pregnancies, and genetics, all seem to concur with this unwanted issue. What is more surprising though, is that it can affect even sporty and health-conscious women.
A holistic approach that takes into consideration various aspects of the problem and how they integrate together may be the best approach. Here are a few considerations that may help understand this common issue.
- Poor diet choices Too much coffee, alcohol, added salt, and lack of fresh fruits and vegetables, may contribute to this unsightly problem. A healthy and balanced diet, with less alcohol and anti-inflammatory foods is a good place to start
- Bad blood circulation. Standing or sitting for many hours at work or on the couch, do have a negative effect on our blood circulation. If you tend to have slightly swollen legs or ankles, broken capillary or a familiar tendency towards varicose veins, improving your circulation can be beneficial.
- A sluggish lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is designated to take away the toxins that are the bio-product of cellular activity. It doesn’t have any valve to help with its fluidity, but it relies heavily on muscles and movement to do its job. Physical activity, yoga and massage can all help.
- Hormonal imbalances. Contraception, pregnancies, and general hormonal imbalances can all contribute.
- Lack of muscle tone. A lack of muscle tone in critical areas like glutes, hips, upper thighs, and above the knees, can greatly contribute to the problem. An exercise routine that can target those specific areas, is obviously beneficial.
- Stress. Stress and chronic lack of sleep, are disruptive of a good over all body functioning. They can also be hormone disruptive and contribute to inflammation and non-optimal muscle recovery.