Menu

Does Water Improve Cellulite? Here Are the Facts

Are you wondering if water improves cellulite?

Let’s state the facts. Cellulite is fat that accumulates under the surface of the skin. It occurs when the underlying fat deposits begin to push against the layers of connective tissue, giving it a dimply, less than smooth appearance. Men and women can get cellulite but it’s most common in women due to hormonal changes.

Cellulite can also be hereditary so chances are if your mother has cellulite you probably will too. Age is a factor as well because as we get older, the skin loses elasticity. Cellulite is usually but not always found on the thighs (sometimes referred to as “cottage cheese thighs”), hips, and buttocks and can occur in people who are thin as well as overweight.

Featured on BlackDoctor

People with a higher percentage of body fat versus having lean muscle mass are likely to have cellulite. Drinking water does help but is not the only answer.

What causes cellulite? There can be several contributing factors.

1. A sedentary lifestyle 

People who are sedentary are more likely to have less lean muscle mass and more body fat. As the weight and body fat increase, it pushes against the fat underneath the skin giving it a “dimply” appearance.

2. Hormones

As women age, the hormone estrogen declines. Estrogen is responsible for keeping blood vessels flowing smoothly. As it declines, the result is poorer circulation and a decrease in new collagen production.

3. Water Helps Combat Dehydration and Cellulite 

It doesn’t directly cause cellulite but can cause other changes that could lead to an increase in fatty tissue. For example, when the caloric intake increases it can lead to weight gain. Drinking water prevents dehydration and helps the circulatory system’s ability to break down fat and eliminate waste.

4. Smoking

This reduces blood vessel flow. As with the loss of estrogen, it disrupts new collagen formation and allows for connective tissue to be stretched.

How much water should we drink? It is recommended that for an average size person we should drink 64 oz. of water daily. The more water one drinks the better. Your body needs to get accustomed to taking in more water on a regular basis.

Once this happens, it will eliminate the excess water which can be a contributor to cellulite. The results will vary among individuals and of course, depends on how severe your cellulite is, to begin with, to see results.

How can we reduce the appearance of cellulite? Increasing our water intake is very important but we shouldn’t minimize the importance of a well-balanced diet which will decrease inflammation in the body and promote weight loss.

Incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins is the way to go. This will help prevent new fat cells from forming. We want to avoid processed and refined foods as well as high-sugar foods and beverages.

Exercise is key to losing body fat and reducing the appearance of cellulite. A well-rounded program consisting of cardio and strength training will yield the best results. The cardio program, for example, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) will burn a greater percentage of stored body fat. Strength training will create new muscle tissue which will tone and tighten the skin making cellulite less noticeable.

The bottom line is a healthy diet along with exercise and increasing water intake will always be necessary components to achieving results. Lastly, be patient during the process. Stay consistent.

Related Stories
Answer the question below
What areas do you try to improve in spring?

Get our Weekly Newsletter

Stay informed on the latest breakthroughs in family health and wellness. Sign up today!

By subscribing, you consent to receive emails from BlackDoctor.com. You may unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.

More from BlackDoctor

Where Culture Meets Care

BlackDoctor is the world’s largest and most comprehensive online health resource specifically for the Black community. BlackDoctor understands that the uniqueness of Black culture - our heritage and our traditions - plays a role in our health. BlackDoctor gives you access to innovative new approaches to the health information you need in everyday language so you can break through the disparities, gain control and live your life to its fullest.
✦ AI Search Disclaimer
This AI-powered search tool helps you find relevant health articles from the BlackDoctor.org archive. Please keep the following in mind:
✦ For Informational Purposes Only
The information provided through this AI search is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
✦ Always Consult a Healthcare Provider
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read through this search tool. If you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
✦ AI Limitations
This search tool uses artificial intelligence to help match your queries with articles in our archive. While we strive for accuracy, AI-generated results may occasionally be incomplete, outdated, or not fully relevant to your specific situation.
✦ No Doctor-Patient Relationship
Using this search tool does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and BlackDoctor.org or any healthcare provider.
Explore over 35,000 articles and videos across black health, wellness, lifestyle and culture
Full AI Search Experience >
×

Download PDF

Enter your name and email to receive the download link.