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Although there are several possible explanations, the truth is: we don't know why cellulite is caused. Being overweight doesn't cause cellulite - many sufferers are slim, while many severely obese people show no signs of it. Older people have more cellulite than younger people, although it's also prevalent in adolescents. Despite intensive research as well as the existence of hundreds of different creams, lotions and oils which claim miracle properties, no proven cure for cellulite exists. It is believed that there are a number of factors that contribute to its development. Tension, fatigue, smoking, lack of exercise, alcohol, drugs, age, genetics and a difference in female fat architecture have been held responsible for the poisoning of connective tissue and formation of cellulite. Some researchers believe that cellulite is genetic, while others believe that it is caused by eating too much fat, not exercising enough and having poor circulation, collecting toxins in your body, or maybe all of the above.
Age : Cellulite can start to develop in girls as young as 14 or any time after puberty, but it does become more common after the age of 30. There are two main reasons for this, firstly the average women gains approximately 4.5 – 6.8kg of fat per decade and the more fat you gain the more likely you are to develop cellulite. Secondly, ageing also triggers the thinning of the top layer of the skin that covers the subcutis layer, making the lumpy fat more visible from the surface.
Lifestyle : Our lifestyles today are nowhere near as active as those experienced by our grandparents. For example we walk an average of 12 kilometers per day less than what they would have done. The formation of cellulite is affected by inactivity, therefore, the more exercise you do the more calories you will burn and the less likely you are to gain weight. Exercise also strengthens the heart and helps to improve circulation.
Excess Weight : Recent statistics have shown that at least 35 per cent of the US population is deemed overweight while a further 25 per cent are obese. The UK also has a similar number of heavy weights with 30 per cent of women being overweight and a further 20 per cent classed as obese. While cellulite does affect slim women, it is more prevalent in those who are fat and overweight.
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