Contrary to popular belief, cellulite is a skin problem – not a fat problem. The lumpy “cottage cheese” skin occurs when the fat cells underneath our skin push up against connective tissue known as collagen. As collagen loses elasticity and blood vessels decrease in circulation, fat tissue seems to protrude out, causing a dimpled appearance of the skin. Common in more than 80% of women,“cottage cheese” skin does not discriminate against size. In fact, cellulite is more frequently associated with hormonal changes than with weight fluctuation. Yet healthy eating habits, combined with certain massage therapies, can help reduce the appearance of cellulite.

August is our “Summer Body Secrets” month when we help highlight power foods, ancient holistic therapies and skin care products that actually help fight cellulite from the inside out. We’ll be delving deeper into what causes cellulite, and what we can do to minimize its affect on our bodies – and psyches. Having cellulite doesn’t mean you are overweight. Even thin people can have it. If you are overweight, however, losing weight may reduce cellulite.