Tips to reduce cellulite and live healthier
Here’s the thing. Supplements will never replace, or ever be as good, as a decent whole-food diet. Everyone should ideally eat a diet rich in saturated (healthy) fats, grass-fed/free-range/wild caught proteins with a medley of seasonal organically-grown (mostly) cruciferous vegetables and some fruit for special occasions. But, let’s face it, that kind of diet requires a lot of effort and sometimes we fall short. That’s where supplements can help.
Now, bear in mind that some supplements can do more harm than good, so it’s always best to seek out the advice of a health professional (Holistic Doctor and/or Naturopath) before handing over good money for any supplements. The most thorough approach is to be tested for any deficiencies, though most holistic health professionals will be able to ascertain what your body needs from taking a thorough history of any symptoms you may be presenting with and a good look at your diet.
Just to get the conversation started however, I’m going to suggest some here that might be worth looking at.
Let’s start with collagen-boosting supplements as these are key to maintaining healthy, supple skin and should prevent cellulite from worsening.
Many moons ago, when humans began to hunt and then raise animals, they would have eaten every part of the animal. The bits that couldn’t be eaten directly (e.g. bones) would have been simmered to make a bone broth rich in minerals and nutrients such as gelatin, calcium, magnesium, glucosamine, chondroitin, silicon and more. Unfortunately, we rarely eat like this nowadays, so it’s harder to find the same nutrients in a modern diet.
If you don’t have the time (or inclination) to make bone broth at home, supplements like glucosamine, silica and gelatin (collagen powder) can support your skin’s regeneration and maintain its strength and elasticity.
Then there’s Gotu Kola, an ancient herb which is said to be helpful in stimulating the production of protein molecules to increase collagen production. It also boosts blood circulation which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin.
Vitamins can also help you maintain a healthy, glowing skin, for example vitamin B6 assists in relieving excess fluid buildup, vitamin C helps to detox and strengthen the skin and vitamin E is known to improve circulation. Antioxidants such as co-enzyme Q10, black pepper extract and cinnamon root extract are also known to increase circulation and promote healthy skin.
Green tea is high in antioxidants and is believed to improve the body’s ability to burn calories which is useful if you’re trying to lose a few kilos.
Then there are supplements which are often recommended for general good health such as fish oils (ideally fermented cod liver oil for vitamins A and D), and magnesium (glycinate) for normal functioning of cells, nerves, muscles, bones and the heart and particularly useful in chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia.
The only thing I’d add to this list are probiotic/prebiotic blends to nourish a healthy gut. But stay tuned for more on that tomorrow!!!
