Column as written for InShape News. See the original post here:

Cellulite is common in women of all body shapes and sizes. In fact up to 90 percent of post pubescent women have some cellulite in the pelvic region, lower limbs, or abdomen. And although it may be unwanted, it’s completely normal.

Cellulite’s ‘dimpling’ effect is caused by little protrusions of fat through the fibrous connective tissue that lies under the surface of the skin (please refer diagram courtesy Wikipedia). What results is an orange peel or cottage cheese appearance of the skin.

Unfortunately it’s genetic – if your mother had it, then you’re likely to get it as well. And although there’s no permanent solution for cellulite, there are a number of things you can do to help reduce the appearance of it.

Lotion, Potions and Surgery

Most of these will do nothing including the array of new fad machines which don’t have any scientific proven results despite their marketing tactics. The only exceptions to reduce the appearance are:

– Creams with 2% aminophylline – drains water from fat cells temporarily.

– Liposuction – the physical extraction of fat cells.

However, neither of these provides any permanent solutions. So let’s now look at what can.

Eat Right

The presence of toxins from over processed and fast foods exacerbates the appearance of cellulite. Stick to a healthy diet of fresh vegetables, lean protein, complex carbohydrates and fresh fruit and you will avoid cellulite.

Lose Weight

As a general rule fat cells don’t multiply, they just enlarge when you put weight on. And enlarged fat cells tend to give a more dimpled appearance, so reducing your weight will help reduce the severity of cellulite.

Tone Up

If you don’t need to lose weight then toning up helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite by converting any excess fat to muscle. Make sure you include resistance training twice week into your exercise routine.

Move More

Those with circulation problems, including lymphatic issues, will tend to have a more prominent ‘cottage cheese’ look. Keeping active and mobile will help to improve your circulation and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

More Water, Less Salt

Drink at least 3 litres of water every day, more if you’re exercising, to flush the excess toxins out of your body. Also reduce your salt intake, as this minimises any water retention which can make the cellulite more obvious.

Reduce Stress

Stress produces the chemical catecholamine, via adrenalin, which has been associated with an increase in cellulite. So do what you can to keep the stress down.