Cellulite

Cellulite

DEFINITION
Cellulite is not a disease. It is a cosmetic disorder which
appears as pitting, bulging and deformation of the skin. Cellulite
most commonly occurs around the thigh region in women.
DESCRIPTION
Cellulite is not a medical condition and is not a health risk.
It is a common problem which affects many women and some men. Poor
blood and lymphatic circulation, hormonal imbalances, connective
tissue weakness, premature skin ageing, poor nutrition, excessive
alcohol intake and/or a sedentary lifestyle may contribute to the
problem. 
WHAT IS CELLULITE?
When Cellulite first appears the skin looks soft and flabby
with bulging contours. As the condition progresses, the framework
of the skin begins to break down. When Cellulite reaches an
advanced stage the spongy lumps harden into nodules commonly known
as ‘orange peel skin’. 
WHAT CAUSES CELLULITE?
If your body is storing large amounts of body fat, it needs
some sort of structure to support the fat. It sets up a network of
protein strands (called ‘collagen’) that weave through the fat
stores, and attach to the skin. The tension of the collagen strands
can pull the skin inwards. This gives the dimpling effect that can
be a problem on the thighs or arms of females, or the stomachs of
males. This combination of body fat stores and supporting fibres is
called Cellulite.
IMPROVING CELLULITE
There is no ‘quick fix’ for Cellulite. Treatments such as
rubbing, massage, creams, plastic wraps, or heat can cause a
short-term (one to 4 hours) reduction in the size of the treatment
area because they reduce the amount of fluids in the area, such as
the blood or water. However, these fluids are soon replaced, and
the area goes back to its original size. A well-balanced diet
combined with regular exercise is the only formula for permanent
low body fat levels.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Always consult your Doctor for diagnosis and advice. Your
Doctor can give you advice about treating poor circulation if
necessary. A healthy diet and regular exercise is the only sure way
to reduce Cellulite. See the Cellulite Diet topic on the
Healthpoint.
In extreme cases surgical procedures such as liposuction are
available to remove excess fat deposits in the body. Ask your
Doctor about the risks and benefits of such procedures. Such
procedures should only be considered in conjunction with diet and
exercise management.
DIET HINTS
  • A healthy diet which is high in fluids and fibre and low in fat
    may help to reduce Cellulite by improving the elimination processes
    in the body and by reducing body fat levels.
  • A high fibre diet includes eating foods such as wholemeal bread
    and cereals, fruit and vegetables with each meal. 
  • Try to drink approximately 6 to 8 glasses of fresh water
    throughout the day.
  • Avoid salty foods and avoid adding salt to food. Dietary salt
    can cause fluid to be retained in the body which may worsen the
    visible signs of Cellulite.
  • It is best to choose foods which are low in fat and avoid fried
    foods, cakes, biscuits, pastry, chocolate etc.
VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS
Nutritional supplements are only to be taken if the dietary
vitamin intake is inadequate.
  • Ginkgo biloba is a herb that helps to improve circulation and
    may be beneficial in reducing the severity of Cellulite.
  • Vitamin C(ascorbic acid slow-release) stimulates the growth of
    collagen (connective tissue found in tendons) and may help to
    improve the appearance of skin affected by Cellulite.
  • Bioflavonoids are water-soluble nutrients which may help to
    keep collagen in healthy condition and increase the strength of
    small blood vessels.
  • Celery (Apium graveolens), Juniper (Juniperus communis) and
    Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) are herbs with diuretic
    properties. Research indicates that removing unwanted fluid from
    the body may help in reducing the appearance of Cellulite.
  • Chlorophyll is a concentrated alfalfa extract that helps to
    regulate the pH of the body and is also used to help remove
    unwanted toxins which may contribute to the formation of
    Cellulite.
  • Acidophilus is a natural substance found in the body. As a
    supplement it helps to regulate the growth of beneficial bacteria
    in the bowel. Acidophilus promotes healthy digestion and
    elimination of wastes that may worsen the appearance of
    Cellulite.
AROMATHERAPY
The listed essential oils are suggested for Cellulite health
management. The most specific oils are shown in
capitals. 
FENNEL, GERANIUM, GRAPEFRUIT, JUNIPER, Lemon
Application
MASSAGE: Blend 5 drops (total) of any listed single essential
oil or combination of essential oils to 10mL (1/3 fl oz) carrier:
Sweet Almond, Apricot Kernel. Massage firmly into thighs, buttocks
and other areas cellulite is present. For best effect, massage
after a warm shower or bath when skin is warm and moist. Most
effective when used in conjunction with a nutritional diet and
exercise programme.
PHARMACIST’S ADVICE
Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
  1. There is no specific medication which is used to treat
    Cellulite. The actual cause of Cellulite is still relatively
    unknown. The best approach involves improving circulation through
    regular exercise, reducing fat in the diet, maintaining a healthy
    weight and reducing fluid retention.
  2. If weight control is a problem ask your Pharmacist for advice
    about the weight control products available from the
    Pharmacy. 
  3. Try to drink 6 to 8 glasses of filtered water throughout the
    day. Water is necessary to help the lymphatic system work more
    efficiently and to stimulate the natural process of waste
    elimination from the body. Ask to see the range of special water
    filter jugs.
  4. Consider some nutritional supplements if the diet is
    inadequate. Weak connective tissue may contribute to the formation
    of Cellulite. Poor wound healing and easy bruising may be
    indicators of this. 
  5. A fibre supplement and acidophilus may help to stimulate
    digestion and the elimination of waste products from the body.