Health Conditions from A to Z

 

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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