Cellulite vs Fat

Whilst you may associate cellulite with those who are overweight, it is important to recognize that the characteristic lumps and bumps of “orange-peel” skin can afflict even the skinniest of people.

Cellulite affects women rather than men, and is a condition affecting the connective tissue of the body.

The problem of cellulite occurs when pockets of fatty tissue become trapped beneath the connective tissue of the body. Whilst the skeleton provides a framework for the body for support and protection, the organs and tissues of the body are held together by a network of connecting tissues called the superficial fascia that lies under the skin.

The skin is elastic and it will tolerate an amount of expansion and contraction caused by fluid and fat level fluctuations. The connective tissue underlying the skin is not as elastic and it will not tolerate such changes.

As a result, fat cells become stuck beneath the connective tissue in nooks and crannies from which they cannot escape - and this is what causes the bumps and bulges on susceptible areas of the body.

Whilst calorie controlled diets will reduce levels of fat in the body, they do not affect cellulite and it is for this reason that even the very slim can be affected by this problem.

Even if the fat cells are eventually persuaded to dissipate whether through diet exercise or massage, the connective tissue will not revert to its former shape, as it has no elasticity. It is a bit like over-filling a plastic carrier bag and causing it to become misshapen – no amount of smoothing and folding will restore that carrier bag to its original shape and size.

There are particular parts of the body that are more susceptible to cellulite because these areas are prone to storing more fat in general. These include the thighs, hips and buttocks – all areas designed to lay down stores of fat, in days when food supplies were not plentiful, to sustain the female during pregnancy, childbirth and lactation.

Unfortunately, the genetic programming of the female body has yet to catch up with modern day food supply levels.

In comparison to cellulite, fat is remarkably easy to shift from the body. This statement should give the reader an idea of how stubborn and persistent cellulite can be. For those who are overweight, the excess weight can conceal cellulite and it is not until this excess weight is finally lost that the cellulite is uncovered and revealed. Being thin can make the cellulite appear to be worse as it is far more visible.

To rid yourself of cellulite is a long process that requires resolve and determination. Starting with a complete detoxification; continuing with a cleansing diet that is high in fluid and nutrients and incorporating regular daily aerobic exercise and weight training.

A diet high in water rich fruit and vegetables is then required for life, to prevent the problem recurring.

Massage can help, although the jury is out on whether the various lotions that are now available really do help the condition. Just the physical action of massaging affected areas to stimulate circulation, improving oxygen supply to the cells and encouraging the elimination of toxins can do nothing but good. (Massage should be avoided in any areas where there are varicose veins)

Therefore, whilst cellulite may be caused by fatty tissue initially, the problem will persist even in the absence of fat. Dieting to reduce cellulite does not work.

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