Let’s get one thing straight: cellulite is normal.
It’s common, it’s natural, and it happens to women of all shapes and sizes. But while we’ve been conditioned to see it as just a cosmetic “flaw” to hide, functional medicine teaches us to look deeper—because sometimes, what’s showing up on your skin is a message from what’s happening beneath the surface.
In other words, cellulite might not just be about fat or genetics—it could be a gentle nudge from your body to take a closer look at your lymphatic system, inflammation, or hormonal balance.
Let’s unpack what functional medicine has to say about it.
What Is Cellulite, Really?
Cellulite occurs when fat cells push up against the skin, while connective tissue pulls down—creating that puckered, dimpled look. It’s most common on thighs, hips, buttocks, and abdomen. But contrary to popular belief, cellulite isn’t a sign of poor health or excess weight. Even the most toned, active individuals can have it.
Myth: Only “unfit” people get cellulite.
Reality: Up to 90% of women experience it post-puberty, due to natural differences in fat distribution, connective tissue structure, and hormones.
So if it’s so normal, why do we bring it up? Because in some cases, it can be a visible clue of deeper imbalances—especially when it worsens suddenly, becomes painful, or is accompanied by bloating, fatigue, or heaviness.
Lymphatic Health & Cellulite: What’s the Connection?
Your lymphatic system is like the body’s inner drainage network. It moves fluid, clears waste, and supports your immune system. Think of it as your body’s “clean-up crew.”
When the lymph system is flowing well, toxins and excess fluids are removed efficiently. But when it’s sluggish or stagnant, fluid can build up in tissues—leading to puffiness, inflammation, and yes, more pronounced cellulite.
Unlike your circulatory system, your lymph doesn’t have a pump (like the heart). It relies on movement, breath, and muscle contractions to keep things flowing.
For your visual learners- check out this video briefly outlining your lymphatic system.
So, What Slows the Flow?
A few common culprits of lymph stagnation include:
- A sedentary lifestyle (hello desk jobs and long commutes)
- Chronic dehydration, which thickens lymphatic fluid and slows circulation
- Inflammation and toxin overload from processed foods, environmental exposures, and stress
- Hormonal imbalances, especially estrogen dominance, which can affect fluid retention and fat distribution
When the lymph system isn’t clearing efficiently, fluids, waste, and even fat can accumulate in areas like the hips and thighs—worsening the appearance of cellulite.
Functional Medicine Fixes: Support Lymph Flow + Love Your Skin
If your goal is smoother skin and better overall health, the key is supporting lymphatic flow and reducing inflammation from the inside out. Here’s how we approach it holistically at our clinic:
1. Dry Brushing
Using a natural-bristle brush, gently brush your skin (toward your heart) before showering. This stimulates the lymph system, boosts circulation, and gently exfoliates your skin.
2. Move Your Body (Especially Walking or Rebounding)
Low-impact movement—like walking, yoga, or using a mini trampoline (rebounding)—is especially helpful for moving lymph. Bonus: it also supports your joints and mental clarity.
3. Hydration + Anti-inflammatory Nutrition
Aim for half your body weight in ounces of water daily, and focus on foods that support detox pathways: leafy greens, berries, turmeric, lemon, and omega-3 fats (like flaxseed or wild-caught fish). It’s always a great idea to add in some electrolytes to your water to help hydrate your body better— check out this blog for more information and our favorite recipes and brands we use daily.
4. Manual Lymphatic Drainage or Massage Therapy
These specialized therapies use light pressure and rhythmic movements to stimulate lymph flow and reduce fluid buildup.
5. Reduce Toxin Load
Support your liver and detox pathways by cutting back on alcohol, processed foods, synthetic skincare, and environmental toxins. Incorporate liver-supportive foods like cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, kale), beets, and dandelion root tea.
Conclusion: Beauty Is Skin Deep—But Health Is Deeper
You don’t need to “fix” your cellulite to be fit, healthy, or beautiful. But if you’re noticing changes in your skin that coincide with low energy, heaviness, or sluggish digestion, it might be time to check in with your body—not your mirror.
Here at Mitchell Holistic Health serving the Onalaska and La Crosse areas, we love helping people connect the dots between what they see and what they feel—and guiding them toward vibrant health from the inside out through holistic functional medicine.
Because the goal isn’t perfection—it’s feeling strong, supported, and confident in your own skin. Dimples and all.
Curious if lymphatic support might help you? Let’s talk.
https://mitchellholistichealth.com/contact/
FAQ: Beyond the Dimples Answered by Functional Medicine
1. Can you “get rid” of cellulite completely with diet or detoxing?
Not entirely—and that’s okay! Cellulite is influenced by genetics, hormones, and connective tissue structure. While holistic strategies can greatly reduce the appearance and improve tissue health, aiming for perfection isn’t realistic (or necessary). Think of it as supporting your body, not punishing it.
2. Is cellulite only caused by fat?
Not necessarily. Cellulite involves connective tissue, fluid retention, and circulation, not just fat. That’s why even very lean individuals can have it. The structural relationship between fat cells and connective tissue plays a huge role.
3. Is cellulite a sign of poor circulation?
In some cases, yes. Poor circulation and sluggish lymphatic flow can contribute to fluid retention and toxin buildup—both of which can exacerbate the look of cellulite. That’s why movement and hydration are key tools.
4. Do hormones really affect cellulite?
Definitely. Estrogen, in particular, influences fat distribution, fluid retention, and collagen structure. Hormonal imbalances—especially estrogen dominance—can increase cellulite in the hips, thighs, and buttocks.
5. Is dry brushing just a trend or is it actually helpful?
It’s not a miracle fix, but when done consistently, dry brushing can stimulate lymph flow, boost circulation, and improve skin texture. It pairs beautifully with other lymph-supporting strategies.
6. Does stress affect cellulite?
Yes. Chronic stress raises cortisol, which can lead to fluid retention, increased fat storage (especially around the abdomen), and slowed detox pathways. Supporting your nervous system helps your skin, too!
7. What’s the difference between regular massage and lymphatic drainage?
Lymphatic drainage is a gentle, targeted technique that follows the path of the lymph vessels to encourage movement and reduce stagnation. It’s not deep tissue—it’s strategic and calming.
8. Are cellulite creams or topical treatments worth it?
Most provide temporary surface smoothing, but don’t address the underlying issues like inflammation or lymphatic stagnation. They can be a nice add-on, but they won’t replace internal support.
9. Should I see a practitioner about my cellulite?
If you’re noticing sudden changes, pain, or swelling—or if your cellulite is paired with fatigue, bloating, or hormonal symptoms—it’s worth exploring deeper. A functional medicine practitioner can help uncover what your skin might be signaling.
10. Can improving gut health help with cellulite?
Yes! A healthy gut supports detoxification, hormonal balance, and inflammation regulation—all key players in how your body stores fat and handles waste. Better gut health can lead to clearer skin, better digestion, and less puffiness overall.