Cellulite is a skin condition in which small dents and bumps form in the skin. It is also known as orange peel skin.
Cellulite is caused by changes in the connective tissue. This leads to tension and hardening in the tissue, which causes the typical dents to form.
Cellulite forms mainly on the thighs and buttocks. It can also appear on the breasts, arms and neck. Cellulite mainly affects women. Around 80 to 90% of women have cellulite at some point in their lives. The reason for this is that the collagen fibers in the connective tissue of the skin are arranged differently in women than in men, which promotes cellulite.
Cellulite is not treated in conventional medicine because it is a cosmetic problem and has no health consequences.
If you are overweight, losing weight can often improve cellulite. Diet and exercise play an important role here. Exercise also helps to tighten the connective tissue, which can counteract cellulite. Lymphatic drainage promotes the drainage of tissue water, which can reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Certain nutrients can also potentially support the treatment of cellulite.
Collagen
Collagen is the most common protein in connective tissue. It is a structural protein that is important for the strength and elasticity of connective tissue.
In one study, collagen supplementation appeared to help reduce cellulite in women. Studies indicate that collagen is most effective when combined with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. 1
Vitamin C
Cellulite is associated with increased oxidative stress. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that can capture free radicals and thus counteract oxidative stress.
Vitamin C is also needed for the production of collagen.
Studies suggest that vitamin C, especially in combination with OPC, zinc and vitamin E, could improve the elasticity and moisture of the skin. 2
Zinc
Zinc is very important for skin health. It is needed for cell division and thus promotes the regeneration of skin and connective tissue. 3
Zinc also has an antioxidant effect and helps counteract the oxidative stress associated with cellulite.
OPC
Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC) are extracted from grape seeds. OPC has an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.
In animals, OPC was able to strengthen collagen bonds, which could tighten connective tissue and increase skin moisture. 4
Conclusion: Certain nutrients should not be missing if you have cellulite
Since cellulite is associated with oxidative stress, a good supply of antioxidants is useful for cellulite. There is promising evidence that collagen is effective in treating cellulite, especially in combination with vitamin C.
