Cellulite, also called the "Orange Peel Phenomenon", is a medical skin condition characterized by puckered and dimpled skin. It develops when fat builds up between the fibrous connective bands that bind skin to the muscle. The stomach is the next most prone area to cellulite after the thighs and the buttocks. Here are 8 steps on how to get rid of belly cellulite.
1. Boost your lymphatic system -
The lymphatic system is the body's drainage system. By working in conjunction with the liver, it helps flush out toxins which if retained in the body are stored in the fat cells. You can boost the lymphatic system by exercising and increasing intake of fluids. Also, do not wear very tight clothes and avoid sitting for long hours.
2. Lose weight -
In obese and overweight women, losing weight can help in a big way to reduce cellulite. When you lose body fat, the fat cells automatically shrink in size thus making the bumps and lumps less prominent. You can lose weight by reducing your daily calorie intake. You can combine a healthy diet with regular exercise as it helps burn calories.
3. Limit fat but do not cut out completely -
Excess fat is the culprit of cellulite, but you need to know which type. There are two types of fat - saturated fats (unhealthy) unsaturated fats (essential). If you want to get rid of dimpled, puckered skin, you should avoid foods rich in saturated fats. Instead, substitute them with Omega fatty acids. It is found in fish oil, macadamia nuts, olive oil and flax seed oil. Omega fatty acids protect the skin from damage and are also responsible for membrane function.
4. Abdominal exercises -
When you suffer cellulite on your belly, you should do exercises that tone and firm the midsection. You can do crunches, pilates and sit-ups. There are a few yoga poses that might also help to get a flat, toned belly.
5. General exercise -
In addition to the abdominal exercises you do, you should also do general cardio and strength training exercises. Such a combined routine revs up the body's fat burning mechanism. Alternate between high and low intensity exercises for the best results. You should exercise for minimum 30 minutes per day.
6. Massage your stomach -
Skin massage is another effective cellulite therapy. It breaks down fat deposits below the skin and helps flush out toxins from the body. It also improves blood circulation.
7. Dry skin brushing -
Dry skin brushing works in a similar manner as a regular skin massage. Dry brushing stimulates the lymphatic system.
8. Cellulite lotions and creams -
There are several anti-cellulite lotions and creams available on the market. Most include caffeine as a chief ingredient.
When you're trying to remove cellulite in the abdominal region, you should beware of the so-called quick cures. In fact, there is no complete cure for this skin condition. Dietary alterations, lifestyle changes, exercise and topical treatments only help improve the appearance of cellulite and prevent the condition from worsening. Be patient and stick with the program you have chosen to achieve the best results.
