Negative Effects on the Skin
Coffee, known to have its stimulating effects, releases caffeine into the body which may lead to an increase in cellulite. Cellulite is often present in females due to their fat cells lying closer to the skin’s surface. In particular caffeine reduces elastin, which is a key skin protein that helps to keep the skin tight and toned. Moreover, studies have found that coffee’s antioxidants, called polyphenols, can interfere with fat metabolism, resulting in increased fat storage. As studies suggest, when eating or drinking foods containing polyphenols, fat cells can form and harden – the result being cellulite.
What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is localized at the thighs, buttocks and abdomen, described as a dimpling effect on the skin, caused by pockets of fat in the body pushing through the layers of the skins supportive structures. There are a number of causes for the presence of cellulite, including hormonal changes and aging. Poor diet, lack of exercise and genetics can also contribute to the development of cellulite.
Coffee’s Role in Cellulite
Coffee can be both a contributor of cellulite as well as a solver. Firstly, caffeine can be used topically to reduce and prevent cellulite, as caffeine functions as a diuretic and can aid in eliminating water retention. Moreover, it has been suggested that caffeine can help reduce inflammation and reduce fat cells in the skin. Secondly, however drinking too much coffee can have a reverse effect and increase cellulite because it functions as a diuretic, meaning that it forces the body to get rid of electrolytes including potassium and sodium. If a person does not replace the lost electrolytes, their body is unable to retain water, and as a result, can lead to dehydration and an increased chance of cellulite developing.
What is Caffeine?
Coffee contains caffeine which is a stimulant drug found naturally occurring in several plants and is used to increase alertness and improve performance. When ingested, it can help people stay active and alert. Caffeine stimulates the body’s metabolism and increases lipolysis, or the body’s fat burning capacity. Furthermore, caffeine is one of the most widely used supplements to aid weight loss, as it boosts the metabolism and helps to reduce appetite.
How to Reduce Cellulite with Coffee
An effective way to reduce cellulite naturally is by drinking coffee. It is important to enjoy coffee in moderation, as too much can lead to dehydration, and an increased chance of cellulite forming. Drinking coffee with some type of liquid such as almond or coconut oil can help maximize its benefits. The addition of oil helps to re-hydrate the body and prevent dehydration from the coffee’s diuretic properties.
Replace Caffeine with Herbal Teas
If experiencing any signs of cellulite, consider reducing the amount of coffee being consumed and replace it with herbal teas. Herbal teas are naturally high in antioxidants, help reduce water retention, as well as control blood sugar levels. Moreover, Drinking water can also help flush out toxins, reduce inflammation and improve the elasticity of the skin.
Alternative Ways to Reduce Cellulite
In addition to coffee and herbal teas, there are other natural remedies to reduce cellulite. Massage treatments can be beneficial, as they help to stimulate circulation and promote blood flow to the affected skin. Dry brushing is another beneficial practice that helps reduce the appearance of cellulite and encourages the body to increase its metabolic rate. Applying natural oils, such as coconut and olive oil can also help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Exercise
Regular exercise is one of the most important ways to reduce cellulite. Exercise can help to tone the skin, improving its firmness and elasticity. Targeted exercises that focus on specific problem areas are beneficial and should be performed regularly to reduce cellulite. Additionally, HIIT workouts, strength and resistance training, as well as aerobic exercises are beneficial for reducing cellulite.
Diet
A balanced diet is essential to reducing and preventing cellulite, as certain foods can cause inflammation, and can affect the way fat is stored in the body. Processed foods, high processed sugar and saturated fats should be avoided, and replaced with anti-inflammatory foods and healthy fats. Eating a balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins can help to reduce and prevent cellulite.
Supplements
Certain supplements can help improve skin health, and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Supplements like collagen, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants are beneficial for reducing inflammation and improving the skin’s texture. Additionally, Vitamin C and Vitamin E supplements can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite by increasing collagen production.
What Experts Say
Experts agree that drinking coffee can lead to an increase in cellulite. However, if appropriate measures are taken and coffee is consumed in moderation, it can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite. David Michael, a professor of nutrition at Cornell University suggests that, “drinking coffee in moderation can be beneficial, as it helps the body metabolize fat and improve circulation”. Additionally, experts suggest that with a combination of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes, it is possible to reduce or prevent the appearance of cellulite.
Cellulite Treatments
There are a variety of treatments that can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Laser treatments, such as endermologie, use heat to stimulate circulation and improve blood flow, which can reduce the appearance of cellulite. Chemical peels, microdermabrasion and mesotherapy treatments, which use chemical and botanical extracts, are beneficial for improving the skin’s texture, and reducing the appearance of cellulite.
Spring a Step Further
In addition to the treatments mentioned above, taking “spring a step further” can be beneficial for fighting cellulite. For example, doing activities such as hot yoga, water aerobics, or even saunas can help to flush toxins out of the body and promote collagen production, leading to an improvement in the skin’s texture. Additionally, using topical cellulite creams can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Conclusion
Drinking coffee in moderation can help reduce the appearance of cellulite, as it stimulates the body’s metabolism, helps to reduce inflammation, and increases circulation. It is important, however to drink coffee in moderation, as excessive amounts can lead to dehydration and an increased chance of cellulite forming. Additionally, it is important to take other steps, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and following a healthy lifestyle to reduce and prevent the appearance of cellulite.
