Cellulite irritates you a lot, but what causes it?

Hormones

Hormones play an important role in the development of cellulite. Many experts believe that oestrogen, insulin, noradrenalin, thyroid hormones, and prolactin are part of the cellulite production process:

• Excess prolactin favours the onset of cellulite because it causes an increase in water retention.
• Hyperinsulinemia stimulates an increased fat storage, especially in the lower part of the body.
• Hypothyroidism due to the slowdown of lipolysis: the fat-melting process. 

Genetics

Some genes are responsible for the development of cellulite. Genes may predispose an individual to the characteristics associated with cellulite (sex, race, slow metabolism, distribution of fat just under the skin, etc). Even people with normal weight may still notice cellulite. 

Diet

People who eat too much fat, carbohydrates, and salt and are low in fiber will surely have more problems with cellulite:

• simple carbohydrates (sugar, flour, rice, pasta and bread) increase the levels of glucose in the blood by several ways- this is stored as fat.
• Alcohol contributes to raising the levels of oestrogen in the blood - an important factor for water retention.
• Salt in excessive quantities disturbs the balance between sodium and potassium, which are responsible for the right amount of water in the body: if these two elements are unbalanced, the body begins to retain more water and promotes the formation of cellulite.

Tobacco

Cellulite can be prevalent in smokers and sedentary people. The oxygenation of the tissues is very important in the fight against cellulite: if the tissues are unable to get enough oxygen, the elimination of toxins and metabolic waste is compromised.

Clothing

Very tight garments (jeans or underwear) restrict blood flow and lymphatic circulation and contribute to the formation of cellulite, as well as the high heels: these are forcing the foot at an unnatural position, causing an overload for the forefoot.