The countdown to summer has begun.
And one of the greatest post-winter challenges is getting rid of cellulite. Don't wait until you try on your swimsuit a week before heading to the beach - start fighting it now! Winter is usually when cellulite appears. Why is that? The chief culprits are: physical inactivity; high heels; tight-fitting clothing; snug stockings; or eating large amounts of fattening foods.
If you notice cellulite, check out these four basic areas in which you can focus on to help fight this common aesthetic problem:
Diet: Start the day by drinking a glass of water and eating a kiwi half an hour before breakfast. It cleans out your system and aids digestion for your next meals.• Stick to a regular timetable. Eat at the same time each day and avoid snacking between meals. Why? Every time we break the natural eating rhythm by snacking, we produce insulin, which favours and produces fat accumulation.• Control your weight. Avoid drastic weight fluctuations by following a healthy and moderate diet. Limit your intake of saturated fats and foods high in sugar. Also, eliminate toxic elements like caffeine and tobacco from your diet.
Exercise: Take advantage of good weather and go for a stroll whenever you can. The longer you walk (half an hour or more) and the faster the pace, the better.• Whether in a gym or at home, experts recommend light aerobic and toning exercises to avoid inactivity.
Creams: Applying creams from head to toe is of no use if it’s not combined with a healthy diet and exercise. However, although not the main way to avoid cellulite, they can be powerful allies in the fight against those unsightly dimples.• The secret to an anti-cellulite cream is to use it regularly. You should also follow its specific instructions because each product has its own application technique.• Why stop at just one? Don’t rule out combining two types of cosmetic creams that reduce the appearance of cellulite: one for general application, and the other for problem areas.
Blood Circulation: Good blood circulation is important for preventing fat accumulation and the resulting cellulite. Squirt cold water on your legs at the end of each shower, starting from your ankles and working your way up to your hips. The cold water should stimulate blood circulation. Pamper yourself with a small massage each time you apply cream, whether it be lotion, sunscreen, or anti-cellulite ointments. The circular motion of the massage should relieve liquid retention and stimulate circulation. Experts also recommend lymphatic draining.• It’s important not to wear tight-fitting clothes that restrict circulation. 10 top fitness tips to help you spring into shapeSlendertone: An easier way to whip your abs into shape