REAL women have cellulite. It's an issue that plagues females of all sizes — that dimply leg and thigh companion that never seems to leave.

"Cellulite is simply ordinary body fat that is trapped in a mesh of connective tissue — the tissues that support the skin protruding into the deeper layer of the skin. It tends to occur mostly on the thighs, buttocks and abdomen," explained dermatologist Dr Clive Anderson.

And women are always looking for ways to reduce the appearance of cellulite, many times trying various methods without success.

This annoying skin issue may seem unavoidable, but it is possible to reduce its appearance with a few diet changes and exercise. This is helpful especially now, bikini season, when no one wants to walk on the beach feeling insecure.

Here are a few things that contribute to cellulite:

1. Excessive carbohydrate intake and intake of high glycaemic index foods.

2. Obesity.

3. Persons who have rapidly gained weight.

4. Weight loss can improve or worsen cellulite.

5. Hormones — increased insulin production in the body increases fat content overall and increases cellulite.

6. Pregnancy — increase in insulin, prolactin and fluid volume may influence cellulite.

7. Lifestyle — prolonged periods of sitting/ standing may worsen cellulite.

Here are a few things that can help:

1. Exercise. There's nothing more natural than getting a good workout, and this alone can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Walk, do lunges, swim laps — a terrific all over body workout that stretches and tightens skin. Lift light weights three to five times a week, practice yoga — anything to get the blood flowing, increase the flow of oxygen to the skin and improve muscle tone.

2. Drink water. Water is a natural resource to flush the body of fats and toxins. Drink three glasses a day of freshly squeezed lemon juice mixed with one cup of water and a pinch of cayenne.

3. Treatments that mechanically massage the fat in the affected area may help to smooth out the dimples.

4. Regular exercise and maintenance of ideal body weight helps.

Shakira Thomas is the director of www.caribbeanchick.com, The Source for Savvy Chicks.