Understanding the Cause of Cellulite

If you want to fight cellulite more effectively, it is important to understand the cause of cellulite. Having an idea of what causes this common plague (nine out of ten women have cellulite) is one step toward reducing cellulite. The cause of cellulite is a relatively complex combination of happenings in the body. However, getting rid of cellulite is not such a complex matter. It requires common sense treatment and some modification of habits.

The cause of cellulite

Cellulite is caused by overflowing pockets of fat cells. The cause of cellulite involves the interaction between fluid retention and messages to release fat cells. Here is how it works. The skin overlays a rather smooth surface of tissue. Because most cellulite is leg cellulite, on the thighs, and bottom cellulite spread across the buttocks, this is where this fairly smooth tissue is in abundance. However, there are small pockets in the tissue, joined by connective tissue that is normally flexible. That is the landscape of what is beneath the skin.

The cause of cellulite is fat cells in the pockets. Normally, a few fat cells in the pockets are not a problem. They are released as calories are burned. However, fluid retention beneath the skin can muddle the signals. The fluid gets in the way of signals sent to the pockets to release the fat. So, the pockets hoard all of the fat cells, and the pockets are only so big.

While this cause of cellulite, the pockets keeping fat cells, is occurring, fluid retention also affects the connective tissue between the pockets. Rather than remaining flexible, it becomes infected and rigid. So as the pockets bulge, the connective tissue does not flex as much. The stiff sides force the fat cells to pile upward in the pockets. Eventually, the fat cells overflow over the top of the pockets. This skin no longer adequately covered and looks dimpled.

While complex system interactions are the cause of cellulite, reducing cellulite is not as difficult. Drinking adequate fluids can lower the rate of fluid retention. Regular exercise, as well as a healthy diet, can keep fluids moving and help develop lean muscle mass that helps prevent fat cells. Once you address cellulite cause, you can begin to reduce cellulite in your body.