What is cellulite? How do I get rid of the cellulite that is accumulating on the backs of my thighs?

Fat cells are stored in small compartments separated by connective tissue. Cellulite is enlarged fat cells that bulge out of their compartments and push into the skin causing a bumpy appearance. Cellulite is not a special type of fat. It does not differ from other types of fat.

Women are more likely to develop cellulite because they have more irregular patterns of connective tissue than men. You don't have to be overweight to have cellulite. In fact, many very lean women suffer from the so-called "cottage cheese" syndrome.

Exercise and dietary changes can help reduce the appearance of cellulite but it may never entirely disappear. There have been attempts to eliminate the appearance of cellulite by using various over-the-counter creams. Skin creams may decrease the appearance of cellulite by causing the skin to swell but the effect is minimal and non-lasting.

Stephen D. Ball, Ph.D., Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia.

Jo Britt-Rankin, Ph.D., State Specialist, Family Nutrition Program, College of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia

Candance Gabel, M.S. R.D., Curriculum and Staff Development Coordinator Family Nutrition Education Programs and Associate State Nutrition Specialist, College of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia