Cellulite is a condition for which cures are commonly sought. The lumpy, rippled skin which typically appears in the thighs and buttocks area known as cellulite is typically associated with a weight problem; however an individual need not be overweight to have cellulite. The condition is caused by water retention and circulatory problems that may resulted from a variety of factors including hormones.

A weakening of the connective tissue located just beneath the skin can also result in cellulite. Although cellulite has been known to occur in men, it is much more typical in women.

Millions of dollars are spent each year on cellulite treatment creams and other types of products to eradicate cellulite, a condition that is considered to be unattractive and believed by many women to be a rare condition. In truth, most women have cellulite and it actually begins to form just after puberty hits. The degree of cellulite varies, but more than 90 percent of all women have it to some degree.

So, if all women have it, is there anything you can do about it? Many people fail to do anything about their cellulite because they believe there is either nothing they can do about it or that it's simply fat. The truth is that it isn't fat that there are actually number of steps that women can take to prevent and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

The most important step women who are concerned about cellulite can take to reduce and prevent its appearance, is to eat a healthy, well balanced diet that is low in fat. Women who do this from an early age, and maintain such a diet, are shown to have far less problems with cellulite than women who do not. Exercise helps to keep the body toned and promotes good circulation, another key step in fighting cellulite.

Finally, the benefits of drinking plenty of water have been touted for many health conditions and cellulite is no different. The main purpose of cellulite is to wash away toxins within your body which can help to increase circulation, thus preventing and reducing cellulite.

It has been suggested the genetics as well as the surge of hormones that many women face, may also be among the causes for cellulite development. While there is nothing you can do about your genetics, and little you can do about your hormones, fighting cellulite by living a healthy lifestyle has been shown to produce amazing results.

Studies also indicate that cutting down or quitting smoking altogether can also provide an improvement in the appearance of cellulite. This is mainly due to the fact that smoking causes damage to small blood vessels, which increases the risk for cellulite.

It's important to keep in mind that while many of the cellulite products on the market today are effective, they can only provide optimal results when combined with a healthy diet and exercise regimen. A gentle skin massage in the areas affected by cellulite can also be beneficial in restoring circulation and reducing the appearance of cellulite.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any health care program.

Emily Clark is editor at Lifestyle Health News and Medical Health News where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information on many medical, health and lifestyle topics.