It's odd sometimes, how train journeys can get your mind spiralling off in funny directions. For instance, reading a story about the forthcoming UK Barista Championships in the paper got me thinking about cellulite. Why cellulite? Well, read on...
Coffee is reportedly packed with antioxidants, those magical marvels in our body which help prevent -- and also repair -- damage to our cells. Green coffee beans (not the roasted ones that we drink) contain chlorogenic acid, an incredibly effective antioxidant and diuretic, which helps your body get rid of excess water. Losing that retained water should improve skin texture, and at the same time smooth out those orange-peel dimples. In other words: help get rid of cellulite.
As well as being packed with beneficial antioxidants, coffee is also a great source of caffeine, which is said to be effective in toning the body. According to studies at the Federal University of the state of Rio de Janeiro, applying a cream that contains caffeine has a slenderising effect on the thighs.
So how do we benefit from this?
Sadly, drinking coffee is not helpful at all in the fight against cellulite, so don't race off and grab a fat-packed milky brew! Although, take heart, some studies suggest that one or two cups a day can help lower the risk of getting Type-2 diabetes and reduce other health risks.
To gain any cellulite-busting value from these magic beans, we need to apply them topically, in their natural state. Try a coffee-rich body wrap or scrub. More spas are cottoning on to the benefits of coffee. Try a Green Coffee Slim and tone wrap at Thermae Bath Spa in Bath, the Coffee Scrub at K West in London, or a Coffee Wrap at Waterfall Spa in Leeds.
Oh, and make sure you drink plenty of water - not a latte afterwards!
References
Harvard Medical School: Coffee Health Risks: www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/coffee_health_risk.htm
Medical News Today: Caffeine's Use In Cosmetic Dermatology: www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/91066.php
Coffee Science Information Centre: Antioxidants in Coffee: www.cosic.org/coffee-and-health/antioxidants
Stylish Spy
4th March 2014
Spy Likes:
Minimalist lines; organic products; facial massage; tranquillity; interesting people-watching.
Spy Dislikes:
Discarded towels on loungers; steam rooms that aren't steamy; mobile phones.
