Sensei Talks

Truth, Myth & Opinion on Health, Wellness & Diet

Search Sensei Talks

Labels

Monday, June 14, 2010

Fight Cellulite the Nautral Way

Cellulite (dun, dun, dun)…the mere word makes most women cringe. We’re all well aware of the growing number of cosmetic treatments and creams aimed at banishing unsightly cellulite. But what if you don’t want to use or can’t afford those options? Or more importantly, what if you understood why those are not really the best choice for fighting the dreaded c-word?

Cellulite (for those of you who don’t already know) is a term for the dimpled, pitted skin that is most commonly found on women’s thighs, buttocks and stomach. These areas are made up of fatty deposits under the skin that make the outer appearance less than desirable to say the least. The causes of cellulite vary from person to person, but often include genetics, excess weight, lack of exercise and hormonal issues. Many women are under the impression that cellulite is a skin condition, but cellulite actually has little to do with the skin and more to do with the fat and connective tissue underneath it.

That being said, you can begin to understand why buying expensive creams or lotions aimed at treating the skin are really just waste of money. The best way to treat cellulite is from the inside out by strengthening and hydrating the body’s cells and connective tissue, eliminating toxins and getting rid of excess fat. I’m going to share with you my top five tips for fighting cellulite the natural way so you can feel confident in those short shorts and bathing suits this summer:

Steer clear of excessive toxins by limiting alcohol intake and avoiding cigarettes. Drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes adversely affects your liver, which is your body’s main detoxifying organ.
Stay hydrated! I can’t stress this one enough. Drink at least half your body weight in ounces worth of water that is free of chemicals and impurities each day. You can also add fresh lemon juice to your water or drink a glass of hot water containing the juice of one lemon when you get up in the morning to help cleanse the liver and promote the proper breakdown of fat.
Avoid junk food, fast food, processed food and soda (including diet) and limit intake of unhealthy saturated and animal fats.
Increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially dark leafy greens like spinach and kale. Make that produce organic whenever possible to limit intake of toxic chemicals and pesticides.
A few alternative options include taking a warm seaweed or Epsom salt bath 2-3 times a week or using essential oils like lemon or grapefruit on the back of your knees or around your bikini area. These are believed to promote circulation and detoxification.

It’s also important to maintain a healthy weight and do regular cardiovascular exercise like walking, biking or swimming. Remember that cellulite is often a result of unhealthy lifestyle habits that can’t be remedied using expensive creams or lotions. Save your money and invest in your overall health instead by making some healthy, positive changes!

- Lauren

If you like this article, you might also enjoy…

Sensei Talks: Green Foods for Weight Loss
Sensei Talks: How to Keep Your Skin Healthy

Labels: healthy eating, healthy living, Lauren