3 Myths About Cellulite

Google the word "Cellulite" and you'll come up with over 31 million results!  It's no secret that people everywhere want to know how to get rid of cellulite.  Liposuction is commonplace and cellulite products are on the rise.  No wonder that the cellulite industry is booming (no pun intended).  Why are we so cellulite conscious?  Do we feel like a failure if we've got a few dimples in our thighs despite the fact that we work out all the time or eat well?  Where are the real solutions to this cellulite dilemma?  Of course we know that eating right, exercise, and good genes play a part in the control of cellulite but are there some other myths that we haven't thought about?  As we age, I'm convinced that accepting where we are (cellulite-wise) may be the first step in really doing something about it.  In the meantime, here are some cellulite myths and observations: Myth #1 - You need to get rid of cellulite

This first myth assumes that you can get rid of your cellulite.  Since we know that cellulite is hereditary, getting rid of it altogether is not a reasonable option.  In fact, over 90% of women have cellulite.  If you're using products that promise to get rid of cellulite save your money and opt for a better diet and more exercise.  While your cellulite may not disappear altogether, you'll avoid adding to the dimples already there.

Myth #2  Losing weight will get rid of cellulite

This myth worries me.  There are so many weight-loss programs that are calorie driven only.  At some point, we'll all lose weight if we eat considerably less, or remove a food group for a period of time.  However, cellulite is stored fat so if you want to lose fat, cutting your calories dramatically may have the opposite effect.  Cut too many calories and your body may become a fat (cellulite) storage machine since your body will be in survival mode.

Myth #3  Lots of cardio will get rid of cellulite

This myth is partially true minus the word "Lots."  The sure-fire way to decrease the appearance of cellulite is to access your fat stores during cardio exercise however, you should avoid being a cardio-junkie.  Cardio alone won't do too much for your cellulite.  Every decade of life you lose between 5-7 pounds of muscles.  Unless you actively strength training 2-3 times per week your cellulite may actually become worse!  Muscle burns more calories than fat so the more muscle you have increases your chance of reducing the appearance of cellulite.

There is a wealth of information on the causes of cellulite.  For a great explanation on cellulite at the cellular level check out Dr. Len Kravitz's article.  Managing cellulite is complex and to say you're going to get lessen it's appearance takes consistency, patience and a certain degree of self-acceptance.

What myths have you heard about getting rid of cellulite?  Since your 20s do you have more or less of it?