Caffeine and Cellulite Reduction
Caffeine and cellulite are often discussed together, but most experts are not 100% sure whether the relationship between the two is positive or negative. On one hand, it is believed that caffeine can alter the breakdown of fat cells within cellulite and reduce its appearance, but on the other hand caffeine can impair blood circulation which can cause fat cells to be deposited in the body.
Cellulite is one physical trait that no one wants to have. It occurs as lumps and bumps on the fatty areas of the body and is considered to be unattractive. It is estimated that a large percent of women have some cellulite buildup, and a wide array of products have been designed to attempt to reduce and eliminate cellulite. Cellulite is essentially fat that builds up between the skin and the muscle. The skin is connected to muscles through anchoring fibers, fat that builds up and presses on these fibers causes bulges and lumps to appear. It is possible that this fat simply builds up as time passes, or that poor blood flow and circulation from the lymph nodes does not properly drain fluid and toxins from these fatty areas, causing lumps to appear. It is also thought that naturally occurring damage to the skin eventually causes the skin to lose some of its elasticity. This means it no long holds as tight as it did before, and fat can be allowed to press against the skin. This damage to the skin’s elasticity may occur from sun damage or simply from age.
The trouble with this type of fat is that it does go away easily. Diet and exercise alone do not seem to be effective against cellulite, hence the need for stimulates such as caffeine. Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it causes a dehydration of the cells. This causes the cells to shrink, which often gives the skin a smoother appearance. The problem with dehydrating the cells and they can hydrate again and then the bumps reappear. It is also thought that this dehydration narrows the arteries and obstructs blood flow, which may possibly cause cellulite to develop. It can also impede the functions of the lymph nodes, causing toxins to develop within the fat cells of cellulite. This is where caffeine and cellulite connect negatively with one another.
While drinking coffee may actually lead to the development of cellulite, it also appears to be functional against these fat cells when used a topical cream. It is believed that caffeine can work to tighten the skin and push the fatty deposits out of sight. Again this type of shrinking of the skin occurs from dehydrating the skin, so this may be only a temporary solution. The caffeine derivative ingredient in these creams is methylxanthine. Caffeine products used in creams, lotions and gels may work to temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite, but they only work to mask the problem, not to fix it.
While caffeine included in creams and lotions may help with the everyday appearance of cellulite, there are ways to get rid of this stubborn body fat. The most important step is to really maintain a proper eating plan. Sugar, salt, alcohol and processed foods are mostly likely responsible for these fat deposits that can be very hard to lose. By cutting back on these negative foods, and focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables and proteins added to exercise; you can allow the body to naturally breakdown cellulite cells. Exercise also increases blood flow and lymphatic flow, which can affect cellulite formation. Massage has also been shown to increase these flows, and may also help prevent cellulite from forming. The best combination for caffeine and cellulite reduction involves reducing the amount of caffeine taken internally, to prevent fluid and toxin build up, while using topical products that contain caffeine derivates to dehydrate the skin and temporarily remove the appearance of cellulite.