The war against cellulite lives on, especially for women and men who have gained and lost a considerable amount of weight. Cellulite affects over 80% of women, and dimpled fat that appears on the thighs, buttocks and back can ruin an otherwise slim and attractive figure. Cellulite removal procedures such as liposuction and skin tightening treatments may help get rid of stubborn fatty deposits that cause cellulite, but some experts suggest that a diet and healthy lifestyle are all it really takes to get rid of cellulite for good. 

The ‘Cellulite Diet’ is touted by several nutritionists and beauty experts as an alternative to surgery. This eating plan contains antioxidant-rich foods and essential vitamins and minerals that help keep skin looking healthy and helps reduce body fat overall.

Does The Cellulite Diet really work? Here’s a closer look at the premises of this cellulite reduction solution:  

Key Principles of The Cellulite Diet  

The Cellulite Diet is comprised of several nutrient-dense foods that may prevent cell damage promote healthy collagen production. Maintaining a healthy skin tone can help reduce the appearance of cellulite and create a smoother, more streamlined look. Anti-cellulite foods include:  

Tuna – quality protein in the diet can help maintain lean muscles and help you build strength with your weightlifting routine. Tuna is just one source of protein that also contains Selenium, an antioxidant mineral that can prevent skin cancer and improve the appearance of your skin.  

Strawberries – a bowl of strawberries is chock full of Vitamin C, an essential vitamin for collagen production. Collagen is the skin-strengthening fiber that keeps skin looking taut and smooth, but collagen levels begin to decline with age. Eating a diet rich in Vitamin C may help ward off many of the signs of aging, and even reduce your risk of cellulite.  

Eggs – whether you enjoy them sunny side up, scrambled or hard boiled, eggs are a valuable source of protein and also contain high levels of B vitamins. B vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy cellular functioning, and a lack of these vitamins can show up on the skin almost immediately.   

Spinach – if you experience bloating and skin inflammation on a regular basis, you may be in need of more beta carotene in the diet. Spinach is a valuable source of beta carotene, and may ward off sun damage and toxins in the environment.  

Olives – a valuable source of Vitamin E, olives can be a healthy snack that help to build collagen and keep skin supple and smooth. While olives are high in fat, they offer many benefits as part of a balanced diet (Source: beautyassist.com).    

Other Anti-Cellulite Strategies  

In addition to watching your diet, some experts suggest reducing body fat with strengthening and toning exercises. Allison Vidimos, M.D., a staff dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation encourages women in particular to focus on losing weight and toning up muscles for a silhouette improvement (Source: Mothernature.com). Shrinking the fat cells and building muscle can make skin look much smoother, taut and youthful; a combination of diet and exercise can help sculpt and tighten the skin for the ultimate shape-up. 

Still, if diet and fitness strategies aren’t producing any results, the next solution may be a cellulite reduction treatment. Cellulite removal treatment such as Vaser Liposelection, mesotherapy injections and conventional liposuction can permanently remove fat cells to create a more streamlined appearance.  

Getting rid of cellulite may be a combination of healthy eating, a consistent exercise routine and maintaining a healthy skincare regiment. Still, some people may benefit from cellulite removal treatments that get rid of fat cells for the long-term. Learn more about cellulite treatments and fat removal procedures in our information guide, or consult with a cosmetic surgeon to learn more about your options.