7 Ways to Reduce the Appearance of Cellulite

on July 7, 2015

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Cellulite Schmellulite

Cellulite. Let's face it: everybody has it. But that doesn't mean you like it. If you want to reduce cellulite, there's no need to go to drastic measures (i.e. liposuction). Here are 7 ways to diminish signs of cellulite naturally.

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Lean, Mean, Clean-Eating Machine

Eating clean is crucial to reducing cellulite, which forms from enlarged fat cells due to toxic accumulation and water retention. Cutting out refined salts, which are acidic and tend to make you retain water and instead trying mineral-rich sea salt as a substitute in your diet can help--but remember not too much salt! Also, eating a high-alkaline diet, including foods such as the ones listed here, can help level out the body's pH level to neutralize acids that can lead to inflammation. Make sure to throw in foods high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids!

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Let's Get Physical

High intensity interval training is one of the best ways to burn fat, a.k.a. shrink fat cells. Picking up a jump rope, taking up spinning, running, jumping on a trampoline...these are all great ways to get your body moving to stimulate and boost levels of human growth hormone (HGH), which regulates growth and slows as you get older. This sort of training will also boost your lymphatic system, allowing your body to effectively drain itself of toxins. Here are some examples of effective HIIT to get you started!

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Go Green

Green tea truly might be a cure-all. This antioxidant-rich panacea has been known to boost metabolism rates, which can aid in losing weight. Drinking several cups a day (approximately 3) will help you stay hydrated, which in turn can help you feel full longer, as most people who are constantly hungry aren't as well hydrated. In addition, green tea will help increase fat burning during exercise, which is a definite thumbs up for shrinking cellulite. Don't like tea? Try green tea extract as a dietary supplement.

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Quench That Thirst

Because cellulite is often caused by water retention from increased sodium levels, staying hydrated will help flush the body and regulate how much sodium your body holds on to. Limiting the amounts of toxins your body intakes is important, as well. Alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, and highly processed foods--including refined salts and sugars--can actually damage your skin with harmful toxins. Without proper hydration, the body cannot eradicate toxins, so the appearance of cellulite increases. So always always drink 8-10 cups (or more!) of that high quality H2O.

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Ah...Brush It. B-Brush it Real Good.

Using a natural bristle brush on your skin before hopping in the shower has been shown to increase circulation, stimulate the lymphatic system, and exfoliate the outermost layer of skin, all of which help the skin reach its full elasticity and proper plumpness by ridding it of waste. Moving from your hands and feet, gently, but firmly, brush your skin upwards (remember: lift towards the heart). You want to be tough enough to actually exfoliate but gentle enough that you don't get a brush burn--make sure the skin is fully dry, too!

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I Don't Think You're Ready For This Jelly

If you really want to increase collagen levels in your skin, it's not going to happen with some miracle cream. The skin does not actually absorb collagen; instead, you must increase the body's natural collagen production through dietary supplements, like gelatin. Adding fun fruit gummies or a homemade jello to your diet will help boost collagen levels, making your skin supple and firm. Get a delicious gummy recipe here.

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Scrub-A-Dub-Dub!

Another way to boost circulation (and smell absolutely amazing) is by using a coffee scrub in the shower. The caffeine stimulates your blood vessels, which will help circulate out bad toxins by increasing blood flow to the skin and reduce d obvious signs of cellulite. The best part is that you can make this treatment at home with simple ingredients. Need a great recipe for a coffee scrub? We recommend the one here.