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The Fast Way to Get Rid of Cellulite! Find out How to Deal With It and What Causes ‘Orange-Peel Skin’

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Just one of many things women want to get rid of is cellulite. And we totally get it. Who wouldn’t want to get rid of the unwanted dimpled skin on our thighs, legs, stomach, and arms? Even though 80 to 90 percent of women do (or will) experience cellulite, it’s important to remember that it’s not a serious health condition. But, let’s face it — the only area on our body we’d allow dimples is on our face. So, we’re here to let you know exactly what causes cellulite and how you can get rid of it fast by adopting these easy-to-follow lifestyle changes.

What exactly is cellulite?

Cellulite is what we call the lumpy, dimpled flesh unwelcomely found on thighs, legs, buttocks, arms, and stomaches of female adolescents and adult women in their 20s. According to the Mayo Clinic, cellulite is made up of fibrous connective cords that tether the skin to the underlying muscle, with fat lying between. The fat cells that accumulate there tend to push up against the skin and the long, tough cords pull down to create that uneven, dimpled surface we see on the top layer of our skin.

What causes cellulite?

Although the actual cause of developing cellulite remains a mystery to even the most experienced doctors, there are some culprits. According to Dr. Oz The Good Life, everything from genetics (thanks, mom and dad!) to an unhealthy diet can affect the amount of cellulite one develops on their skin. There’s also the lymphatic system to be mindful of, also known as the body’s own drainage system made up of tissues and organs, that flushes out toxins and waste. So, when those toxins aren’t flushed out properly from exercise and healthy eating, the lymph nodes become bloated and partake in increasing the appearance of cellulite.

How to Get Rid of Cellulite

But just because there isn’t one miracle cream or exercise that can make cellulite disappear doesn’t mean all hope is lost! It’s very possible to minimize cellulite and improve the overall appearance of your skin. It just takes time — and commitment — to adjust to these lifestyle changes.

Eliminate dairy products.

eliminate-dairy-products-cellulite via Getty Images

Moo-ve over, dairy! Creamy treats like milk, cheese, and yogurt contain a hard-to-digest protein molecule (casein) that can get stuck in the lymph node ducts and trigger a backup of lymphatic fluids. As a result, this toxin-laden fluid builds up in fat tissue and weakens the connective tissue that’s tasked with keeping fat cells from bulging against the skin. But, by cutting out dairy (even for a week or two) gives your system a break from this protein long enough to restore lymphatic circulation and flush out the dimple-causing toxins.

Eat a plant-based diet.

plant-based-diet-cellulite via Getty Images

Foods that have a high water content — cucumbers, radishes, tomatoes, and bell peppers — can help keep your connective skin tissue strong and weight under control

Consume at least two tablespoons of ground flaxseeds daily.

falxseeds-cellulite -1 via Getty Images   Blended into smoothies, stirred into oatmeal, or sprinkled on salads, these superfood seeds deliver a hefty dose of soluble fiber, which binds to trapped waste in lymphatic fluid and flushes it out quickly. Plus, plant estrogens in flaxseeds stimulate the body’s production of the skin-firming protein collagen to help ensure that your skin stays looking smooth.

Avoid salty foods.

salty-foods-cellulite via Getty Images

Foods that are extra salty cause fat cells to swell, which makes the dimples and unevenness of skin more pronounced.

Drink plenty of water.

drink-water-cellulite via Getty Images

Cellulite on dehydrated skin often looks a lot worse than it does when you drink plenty of water each day.

Quit smoking.

quit-smoking-cellulite via Getty Images

In addition to being generally bad for your health, smoking can also reduce your blood vessel flow, which makes it much easier for your skin to stretch and become damaged.

Get seven to eight hours of sleep each night.

sleeping-cellulite via Getty Images

Uneven skin tone and reduced skin elasticity are twice as likely to occur in poor sleepers than in people who get a healthy amount of rest.

Keep exercise in mind.

exercise-cellulite via Getty Images

Cellulite has been proven to favor inactivity in general. If you have a job where you’re bound to your desk or your couch at home, be sure to take walking breaks whenever you can. Every little bit helps!

Take up strength training.

strength-training-cellulite via Getty Images

Incorporating strength training into your fitness routine will not only help you get more toned, but will also aid in smoothing out your skin.

In order to smooth out your skin, it’s best to stick with a diet low in fat, quit smoking, and achieve an active lifestyle to help banish “orange-peel skin” for good. But remember, you’re only human and a little dimpled skin is really no problem at all. You’re not the only one.

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