What foods aggravate cellulitis?

Author: Dr. Rebekah Lemke V  |  Last update: Monday, September 8, 2025

Aim to avoid fast foods like burgers, Chinese, McDonalds and Ice Cream. But also be aware of margarine and highly processed fats and oils, BBQ sauces and other condiments high in sugar, unhealthy fats and salt. Say no to fizzy drinks, pasta, chocolate and white bread as these can make cellulite worse.

What foods should you avoid with cellulitis?

Fried or Processed Foods

It's essential to understand that fat isn't necessarily the enemy; in fact, good fats like those from avocados, nuts, and olive oil can benefit our skin and overall health. It's the trans fats and saturated fats often found in fried and processed foods that can aggravate cellulite.

Are bananas good for cellulitis?

Bananas, berries, oranges, apricots, grapefruits. These fruits are all packed full of vitamins, lycopene, and methoxylated bioflavonoids. These compounds are full of antioxidants and increase blood circulation. This helps to correct cellulite-causing cell imbalances.

What foods make cellulite worse?

These are the foods that make cellulite worse (avoid these at all cost!): Sugar, alcohol, cheese, processed foods like canned soups and cold-cuts, margarine, sausages, high sodium salt-bombs like soy sauce and pretzels, unhealthy fats found in fried foods and even some pizza!

Does sugar make cellulitis worse?

Sugar gets stored in fat cells and causes them to expand, and sodium causes fluid retention, both of which can make cellulite appear worse. Flaxseed supports estrogen levels and boosts the growth of collagen, the main component of connective tissue.

7 Foods That Kill Cellulite And 7 That Make It Worse

What not to put on cellulitis?

Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing. You may cover the area with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a non-stick bandage. Apply more petroleum jelly and replace the bandage as needed.

Does coffee affect cellulitis?

Some scientific studies suggest that topical application of caffeine products may have positive effects on reducing the appearance of cellulite. Caffeine-containing products may promote blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, helping to reduce edema and improve skin texture.

What fruits are good for cellulitis?

Scientists have not studied the way individual nutrients may treat cellulitis, however, flavonoids -- chemicals in fruits, such as citrus, blueberries, grapes; in vegetables, including onions; and in tea and red wine -- seem to help reduce lymphedema, and the risk for cellulitis.

What drink gets rid of cellulite?

Here's a great drink to help with getting rid of cellulite. Just add fresh grated ginger, limes, oranges and grapefruit to water and let sit overnight. And yes! You can count it towards your daily water intake!

Are potatoes bad for cellulite?

Refined Carbs

You wouldn't think that potatoes, rice, pasta, and products made with white flour such as bread and crackers can cause cellulite. But these high-glycemic-index foods are broken down into sugar by the body and can actually cause inflammation as a result.

What flares up cellulitis?

Risk factors for cellulitis include:
  • Cracks or peeling skin between the toes.
  • History of peripheral vascular disease.
  • Injury or trauma with a break in the skin (skin wounds)
  • Insect bites and stings, animal bites, or human bites.
  • Ulcers from certain diseases, including diabetes and vascular disease.

Is cheese good for cellulitis?

Eating processed foods is one of the main causes of bad cellulite, with processed meats and cheese making the top of the list. If you're suffering from bad cellulite then you need to first look at your diet.

Is yogurt good for cellulitis?

Yoghurt is a rich source of probiotics which help in increasing the number of good bacteria in the body. These good bacteria further help to fight cellulitis. Topical application of yoghurt also helps in preventing skin from this condition. How to use: Consume 1-2 cups of yoghurt to lessen itching and inflammation.

What exacerbates cellulitis?

Several factors increase the risk of cellulitis: Injury. Any cut, fracture, burn or scrape gives bacteria an entry point. Weakened immune system.

Is Bread good for cellulitis?

The simple or "refined" carbs found in many breads, candy, and soft drinks add calories. This leads to fat, especially in cellulite-prone areas.

Is cellulitis linked to poor hygiene?

Good hygiene and skin care can help prevent cellulitis. Watch any breaks in the skin for signs of infection. Untreated cellulitis can lead to amputation, shock, and even death.

What vitamin breaks down cellulite?

Regarding vitamins, they all have a role to play in cellulite prevention and they can somewhat contribute to its reduction, with perhaps vitamin C (ascorbic acid) being the most important, due to its antioxidant action and its important role on collagen synthesis.

Does drinking a lot of water help with cellulite?

Staying hydrated is crucial for minimizing the appearance of cellulite. You've learned how proper hydration supports skin elasticity and overall skin health. By drinking enough water daily, you can enhance your skin's texture and fight the signs of aging. Make hydration a priority in your routine.

What fruit fights cellulite?

Berries and citrus fruits are rich in antioxidants, which play a crucial role in improving the health of your skin. Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and protect your skin from damage. Vitamin C, found abundantly in citrus fruits, is especially noteworthy for its collagen-boosting effects.

What helps cellulitis heal faster?

Self care
  • Place a cool, damp cloth on the affected area as often as needed for your comfort.
  • Ask your health care provider to suggest a nonprescription pain medication.
  • Elevate the affected part of the body.
  • Ask your health care provider whether it might help to wear compression wraps or stockings.

What foods should you avoid if you have cellulitis?

Since cellulitis is an infection caused by bacteria, the use of yoghurt helps in removing the cellulitis-causing bacteria. Garlic is a robust anti-bacterial substance and assists in combating bacterial infections. Avoid these: Cheese, processed meats, butter and margarine, make the inflammation worse.

What increases cellulitis?

Common factors that can lead to cellulitis include: Skin Breaks: Even small cuts, scrapes, or insect bites can provide an entry point for bacteria. Skin Conditions: Skin conditions like eczema, athlete's foot, or fungal infections can compromise the skin's integrity, making it more susceptible to infection.

What organ does cellulitis affect?

Cellulitis is a common skin infection caused by bacteria. It affects the middle layer of the skin (dermis) and the tissues below. Sometimes, muscle below the skin can be affected.

Does hot weather make cellulitis worse?

At a population level, admissions to the hospital for cellulitis risk are strongly associated with warmer weather.

Does rubbing coffee grounds on cellulite work?

Coffee scrubs can't get rid of cellulite, but they can help reduce the appearance of cellulite with regular use.

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