Did you know that cellulite affects 80 to 90% of women?!
So if you have some you are not alone and there is definitely no reason to be ashamed of it.
With that being said, you may still wonder what causes it and if there is something you can do about it? Well keep reading to find out!
What Causes Cellulite?
Cellulite is dimpling of the skin that most commonly shows up on the thighs and buttocks. Fibrous bands that connect the skin to muscles pull downward while fat deposits push upward through the bands leading to dimpling of the skin.
Although cellulite can occur in both women and men (10%) it is more common in women. Below are a few causes:
- Fat Distribution: Women have more fat tissue in the buttocks and thighs.
- Connective Tissue (CT): Fibrous bands in women are arranged vertically while it is criss-cross in men which provides more support.
- Hormones: Men have more testosterone which limits fat and strengthens fibrous tissue. Women have more estrogen which helps to store fat for reproduction purposes.
- Thin Skin: As we get older collagen (structure support) and elastin (stretch) weakens leading to thinning of the skin. This can result in the development of cellulite.
Are There Any Risk Factors?
Although anyone can develop cellulite there are few risk factors. Some we have no control over while some we can limit through lifestyle habits.
- Genetics
- Age
- Sedentary (not very physically active)
- Unhealthy diet (high in saturated fats, processed foods and refined sugars)
Can It Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, we can not completely prevent the development of cellulite. However, there are a few things you can do to help:
- Limit the number of excess calories eaten on a daily basis and increase your levels of physical activity. By doing so this helps to reduce the amount of fat tissue accumulated over time.
- Avoid sitting in the same position for extended periods of time.
- Avoid tight undergarments that reduce the circulation to the buttocks and thighs. Reduced circulation leads to less oxygen to the tissues which ultimately reduces collagen formation.
- Change body composition by building more muscle tissue through weight training and weight bearing exercises such as squats and lunges.
As a reminder, cellulite can affect anyone no matter your size. With it affecting 80 to 90% of women there is no reason to feel bad or ashamed! LOVE your body while implementing habits in your daily routine that will allow you to become the best version of you!
Remember, no comparisons, just focus on being YOUR best!
Life is meant to be enjoyed so wear the bathing suit and live life to the fullest!!!
Find Health in Every Day!
Dr. Lindsay