Fighting the cellulite battle

Cellulite is a combination of fat cells and fibrous connective tissue under the skin. It is usually found on women on the hips, thighs, or buttocks. Cellulite plagues 90% of all women at some point in our lives and the quest to get rid of cellulite has become a billion-dollar business.
While the exact causes of cellulite formation aren't fully understood, it is known that:
Cellulite does not exist only for overweight women.
Thin women have the problem, too.
Older people have more cellulite than younger people.
Women experiencing puberty, menstruation, or menopause are more likely to develop cellulite due to hormonal changes.
No cure exists for 100% cellulite removal
Most cellulite creams and pills have been proven ineffective. Bottom line, cellulite is the product of body composition, genetics and hormones. It is basically pockets of fat, which are trapped in the loosened fibers and cause dimpling in the skin. There are no miracle cures, but to reduce the appearance of the “cottage cheese” look, you need to tighten up the muscle fibers, reduce excess body fat and improve circulation to begin to make a difference.
Although no pill, cream, lotion, potion, or powder is known to be 100% effective in curing cellulite, there are some steps you can take to reduce existing cellulite and slow the build-up of additional cellulite.
Increase your cardiovascular exercise, up to 60 minutes every day. Do a “two a day” meaning walk in the morning and again at night. This will help to burn up the calories and excess body fat and improve circulation in your legs.
Incorporate strength training into your routine three days a week. Try exercises that will tone the hamstrings, quadriceps, hips and glutes. Doing lower body exercises 3 days a week can result in noticeable changes in a month. And although guys don’t typically suffer from the curse of cellulite based on their hormonal makeup, men will benefit from these exercises too. Strength training is good for everyone.
Stay hydrated and eat healthy. Avoid preservatives, chemicals and processed foods, as they can increase the toxins in your body and create inflammation (which doesn’t aid in the appearance of cellulite). If your inner body is healthy and feels good it will start to show on the outside.
Eat plenty of leafy greens, fruits and veggies. Keep junk, sugar and alcohol to a bare minimum. Avoid caffeine, candy, alcohol, and high fat foods.
Avoid diuretics and laxatives (except as truly necessary).
De-stress yourself. Get a massage to promote circulation and relaxation.
"Dry brushing" the area with a natural bristled body brush a few minutes every day will improve the texture of the area.

by Kimberly Wesley