Antioxidant-laden berries are perfect foods for combatting cellulite.
Cellulite is the bumpy, orange-peel appearance of fat deposits under the skin. It usually occurs in women on the buttocks, thighs and hips. It is caused by the break down of collagen or elasticity in the skin. Most women develop cellulite as they age. The condition is genetic and effects around 90 to 95 percent of women over the age of 30. Women are more prone to cellulite than men due to the differing composition of bands of tissue connecting skin, muscle and fat beneath the skin. Even skinny women suffer with cellulite, showing that losing weight does not eradicate cellulite alone, although fat cells will shrink, marking an improvement in its appearance. The consumption of certain foods helps reduce the appearance of cellulite over time, along with the implementation of an exercise regime.
Fruits and Vegetables
Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fiber to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Eat a rainbow color of fruits and vegetables. The more colorful the foods the more antioxidants they contain. Antioxidants combat toxins, strengthening and replenishing the skin. The best types of antioxidants are berries -- strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and cranberries. Consume fruits and vegetables with skin-strengthening lecithin that helps prevent the breakdown of collagen in the skin. These include oranges, tomatoes, grapefruit, spinach, fennel, apples, carrots, bell peppers and cauliflower. Eat foods that combat fluid retention, which contributes to the appearance of cellulite. Asparagus, watermelon, cucumber and celery make good choices. Onion is a great cellulite-buster, releasing from the skin cells.
High Fiber Foods
Fruits and vegetables are a good source of fiber, as are red kidney beans, lentils and mung beans. Fiber helps rid the body of toxins. The consumption of whole grains, such as bran and oat cereals for breakfast boosts the metabolism and provides the body with antioxidants. Aim to eat organic foods produced without added chemicals. Avoid overly processed or refined foods that are stripped of nutrients, low in fiber, and often contain additives, preservatives and sugars that contribute to cellulite.
Water
Water flushes out toxins from fat cells and improves the overall function of the body. It plumps skin cells and keeps them hydrated. Drink 2 liters of water a day. Avoid soda, caffeine and alcohol as these dehydrate the skin, put pressure on the lymphatic system and encourage the storage of fat. Likewise, reduce salt -- as this causes water retention and bloating, increasing the appearance of cellulite. Aim to drink a glass of hot water and lemon every morning to detoxify the body. Substitute caffeinated drinks with herbal teas and decaffeinated coffee.
Protein and Fats
Consume lean proteins to aid growth and development. Eat chicken, white fish, beans and pulses as these contain amino acids that fight water retention. Oily fish is also beneficial. It contains essential fats that hydrate the skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Eggs contain essential detoxifying agents and amino acids to boost collagen levels. Add avocados to the list. They contain fats that boost metabolism and sustain healthy skin. Consume low-fat dairy products and avoid anything high in sugar and saturated fat, such as hard cheese, red meat, baked goods and high-salt snacks. These foods contribute to cellulite by dehydrating and inflaming the skin, slowing down circulation and encouraging the storage of body fat.
Other Factors
A healthy diet goes part of the way toward reducing cellulite; exercise is also vital. Exercise reduces overall body fat and builds muscle, improving skin tone. Quit smoking. Smoking damages the small blood vessels and reduces circulation, which contributes to the formation of cellulite.
Tags: appearance cellulite, fruits vegetables, reduce appearance, reduce appearance cellulite, water retention