Stretch Marks: It's not the End of the World!

If you have done any research on stretchmarks (and you probably have), then you know how and why we get them. You gain weight and you get them. You lose weight and you get them. You grow or have a baby; you get them. And, aside from all the numerous external factors, we get them as we age.

Basically, if you are living and breathing, you already have (or will get) them. The largest organ of the human body often cannot handle all of the stretching and pulling that our body does. As a result, we are left with the marks of life. However, having stretchmarks (or the fact that you will get them) does not mean that it is the end of the world. Really, it's not! There are plenty of things that you can do to prevent, delay, and/or treat those red or white lines that everyone tries so hard to cover up.

Prevention is the key, so start there. Think of skin as a large piece of elastic. As you grow, age, and so forth; that piece of elastic is constantly being stretched in all different directions. The Elastin and Collagen that exist in your skin will react, fight, and leave those pesky stretchmarks. To offset this, one of the most important things you can do for yourself is to maintain a healthy daily diet. This means making sure that you eat proteins (like eggs and beans). Also add plenty of things like carrots, leafy greens, and oranges (as these are good sources of Vitamins A and C). These vitamins are vital in the production of Collagen; and they repair skin tissue as well. Drink plenty of water, and add fish and lean meats to your daily intake.

Get as much exercise as possible. It does not have to be hardcore workouts at the local gym; because you could end up with stretchmarks (of course). Even if only for five minutes a day, during your favorite television show, try some aerobics. Not only will your overall health improve but you will also feel more energized. Aerobics is a great way to tone your body. If you are losing, gaining, or just maintaining weight; keeping everything toned will help to prevent those you-know-whats!

Put equal time into your entire body as you do your hair or your face. Research good creams that can prevent stretchmarks. If you already have them, try all of the above before taking drastic action (such as surgery). There are even creams that can reduce what you have. No matter what you do; remember that you are not alone and it is not the end of the world!