Cellulite
Cellulite is not a disease condition, per se, but a
lay term for unsightly looking dimples in various parts
of the body, especially the thighs, knees, buttocks,
stomach, and arms. It occurs more frequently in women
than in men.
Cellulite is due to an increased ratio of fat cells
to lean body mass. In order to reverse it, reducing
body fat content and building up muscle mass is important.
Spot reducing, aimed at fat reduction at specific body
sites, is extremely difficult, and often is not possible.
Cellulite is formed by fibroid masses of protein that
have accumulated in the spaces between the cells due
to faulty elimination of waste by-products through the
lymphatic system, your body's filtration system.
An Exercise to Reduce or Eliminate Cellulite
Since gravity is the primary force that creates cellulite,
the following exercise is beneficial: First, gently
jump on a mini-trampoline or rebounder (if available)
to create pumping action in the lymph system. Then,
using gravity to drain the lymph system, place your
legs up against a wall or over a chair and massage,
very lightly, the crease formed by the legs and the
abdomen in order to open the deep inguinal lymph nodes,
which is where all of the accumulation that forms the
cellulite must pass to be eliminated from the body.
Self-Care Tips
Diet
Eat
a whole foods diet with less complex carbohydrates and
sugars than is usually recommended for the average person.
Also drink large amounts of filtered water and decrease
your total fat intake to below 20 percent of your total
diet. Also avoid eating animal fats and processed fats,
and do not eat protein at night since unused protein
in the body puts a greater load on the lymphatic system.
Aromatherapy
Juniper, rosemary, lavender, lemon, or geranium essential oils rubbed
into the affected areas can be very helpful.
Bodywork
Self-massage the affected area regularly.
Flower Essences
Crab Apple can help release feelings associated
with negative body image. Add two drops into 4 ounces
of pour water four times a day and continue until you
reclaim your positive body image.
Herbs
Combine
equal parts of horse chestnut bark and gotu kola tinctures
and take 1/2 teaspoon three times a day. Topically apply
a compress made with white birch oil, morning and evening,
or apply an ointment or lotion made from horse chestnut
twice a day. Aloe vera extract can also be applied topically
to the affected areas.
Juice Therapy
Beet and carrot juice combined together can help flush out toxins and
stimulate the lymphatic system, helping to reduce cellulite
deposits.
Caution
If your symptoms persist despite the above measures,
seek the help of a qualified health professional.
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