DOES WATER IMPROVE CELLULITE?

Let’s state the facts. Cellulite is fat that accumulates under the surface of the skin. It occurs when the underlying fat deposits begin to push against the layers of connective tissue, giving it a dimply, less than smooth appearance. Men and women can get cellulite but is most common in women due to hormonal changes. Cellulite can also be hereditary so chances are if your mother has cellulite you probably will too. Age is a factor as well because as we get older, the skin loses elasticity. Cellulite is usually but not always found on the thighs (sometimes referred to as “cottage cheese thighs”), hips and buttocks and can occur in people who are thin as well as overweight.  People with a higher percentage of body fat versus having lean muscle mass are likely to have cellulite. Drinking water does help but is not the only answer.

What causes cellulite? There can be several contributing factors.

• A sedentary lifestyle-people who are sedentary are more likely to have less lean muscle mass and more body fat. As the weight and body fat increases, it pushes against the fat underneath the skin giving it a “dimply” appearance.
• Hormones-as women age, the hormone estrogen declines. Estrogen is responsible for keeping blood vessels flowing smoothly. As it declines, the result is poorer circulation and a decrease in new collagen production.
• Dehydration-it doesn’t directly cause cellulite but can cause other changes that could lead to an increase in fatty tissue. For example, when the caloric intake increases it can lead to weight gain. Drinking water prevents dehydration and helps the circulatory system’s ability to break down fat and eliminate waste.
• Smoking-this reduces blood vessel flow. As with the loss of estrogen, it disrupts new collagen formation and allows for connective tissue to be stretched.

How much water should we drink? It is recommended that for an average size person we should drink 64 oz. of water daily. The more water one drinks the better. Your body needs to get accustomed to taking in more water on a regular basis. Once this happens, it will eliminate the excess water which can be a contributor to cellulite. The results will vary among individuals and of course depends on how severe your cellulite is to begin with to see results.

How can we reduce the appearance of cellulite? Increasing our water intake is very important but we shouldn’t minimize the importance of a well-balanced diet which will decrease inflammation in the body and promote weight loss. Incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins are the way to go. This will help prevent new fat cells from being formed. We want to avoid processed and refined foods as well as high sugar foods and beverages.

Exercise is key to losing body fat and reducing the appearance of cellulite. A well-rounded program consisting of cardio and strength training will yield the best results. The cardio program, for example, HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) will burn a greater percentage of stored body fat. Strength training will create new muscle tissue which will tone and tighten the skin making cellulite less noticeable.

The bottom line is a healthy diet along with exercise and increasing water intake will always be necessary components to achieving results. Lastly, be patient during the process. Stay consistent.