Weight Loss Tips: Stretch Marks
Learn more about today’s weight loss tips topic; what causes stretch marks.
Today’s weight loss tips topic is stretch marks. Stretch marks are a form of scarring. Stretch marks are commonly seen during puberty, pregnancy, and periods of excessive weight gain. Stretch marks are caused when the skin is stretched beyond its natural elasticity. Excessive stretching causes a disruption in the body’s collagen production.
Collagen is an important molecule that keeps the skin elastic. However, if collagen production is disrupted the skin becomes prone to stretch marks. In those individuals with light skin, stretch marks appear pink or reddish-brown in color. In those individuals with darker skin, stretch marks appear brown in color.
If you are looking to avoid stretch marks, then you must monitor weight gain. Pregnant women who gain weight as a natural part of pregnancy should only gain the recommended amount of weight. Weight gain should be slower which allows the skin time to gradually stretch for the growing baby. Applying lotion regularly to the skin can help to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. Consult your doctor on appropriate lotions during pregnancy.
Also, drinking plenty of water can help to keep the skin hydrated and supple. Water helps the skin maintain flexibility and pliability. Stretch marks will gradually fade with weight loss.
You may not be able to prevent all of your stretch marks. However, some may become more of a war wound to all of life’s little pleasures that many of us suffer. For many women, stretch marks are reminders of life’s little pleasures. Weight loss tips encourages you to take each stretch mark in stride as we do with life.
by Kristy Haugen
