Okay, maybe this is a weird post following my post on Fat Tuesday, but at any rate, here we go.
With Spring on the horizon and warmer weather being found across the country, we are now beginning to see many pictures of celebrities in the media being criticized for showing a little cellulite in their bikini. First, let’s define cellulite. It is not an object on someone’s body, it’s a description that is used to describe the dimpling of skin found on the hip/thigh/butt region of many women. Yes, unfortunately it is much more common in women than men due to the way our fat, muscle, and connective tissue is distributed. The connective tissue that forms these storage units for fat are structured diagonally in men, whereas, in women they work in large, vertical, honeycomb like structures. This, unfortunately, enhances the appearance of dimples. Sorry, ladies. However, men and women both should be aware that 80-90% of women have cellulite. Whether thin, big, or somewhere in between, it’s likely that you deal with cellulite to some extent.
So, is all hope lost? Not exactly. You can fight back against cellulite in a few different ways, however, there isn’t a magic pill or cream that will erase the appearance of cellulite (don’t waste your money). The first thing, and most important combative measure, is exercise. Reducing your weight, if you are overweight, and toning up the muscles in the problem area can reduce the appearance of skin dimpling. Sticking to a workout regimen, consisting of 30-60 minutes of cardio, three to five times a week, and strength training (focusing on problem areas) two to three times a week, is recommended. Along with exercise, a healthy diet should be maintained. Reducing your intake of processed, high fat, high sugar foods will help keep you at a healthy weight and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
It has also been shown that vigorous massage to the problem area and dry brushing can help with cellulite. Notice, however, that I have been using the term “reduce” and not “eliminate”. There are ways to help significantly reduce cellulite, but there is no “cure” or proven method to actually completely eliminate it.
So, while many celebs, such as Kim Kardashian, Holly Madison, Beyonce, and many, many others are having to defend their curves from public criticism, at least we can all now know that it’s a normal thing women face.
What are your thoughts on the subject? Do you deal with cellulite? Have you found exercise, diet, or other treatments to work in reducing it? For me, I definitely find that when I am eating healthy and toning my lower half, I can notice the difference. Unfortunately, it’s never gone and my butt and hips will always be my problem area (thanks genetics), but I try not to let it bother me that much. I like having a booty, and if I’m eating right, sticking to my workout routine, and I feel good…..well, that’s all that really matters 🙂
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