Bodybuilding and Stretch Marks
It is important to know that whatever you do, it will at some point, if overdone, have a disadvantage. Same is the case with bodybuilding and exercise. If you overdo it then it is likely that it will result in an injury or things such as stretch marks.
Skin is the largest organ in the human body and also the most complex one. It works as a filter between the body and its surrounding environment. Not only pregnant women get stretch marks but also bodybuilders are at a risk too. Stretch marks basically occur when skin is expanded at a rapid pace. A sudden increase in weight is likely to result in stretch marks. As you look forward to bring your body in a good shape, you put your skin and body in a great deal of stress. When you gain muscles your skin stretches and once it reaches its limit the inner layer of your skin starts to tear. This results in stretch marks.
Stretch marks are mostly permanent. They first appear to be as pink or purple lines and over time turn into white color. They are most common on thighs, hips, upper arms, abdomen and breasts. Although they are permanent, there are treatments that can help prevent them. Some of them are:
- If you like to bulk up and are intense about bodybuilding then it is important that you take preventive measures. First, build yourself slowly. Do not try to get lot of bulk in a short period of time. If you smoke, then you will have to quit it as reduces the elasticity of the skin and you are likely to get stretch marks easily.
- It is important that you have patience when you are bulking up. Allow your skin to adjust to the change. Go slowly. After all slow and steady wins the race.
- Make sure you take a well balanced diet full of minerals. A balanced diet keeps your skin healthy. Include vegetables, fresh fruits in your diet. These things help in collagen production.
- If you think that you are not getting adequate minerals and vitamins from your diet then you can take supplements. But avoid steroids. They have been known to cause stretch marks rather than preventing them.
- Use lotions that are high in vitamin C. Also use of coconut oil is suggested. Rub them in troubled areas.
- Be well hydrated. Drink plenty of water, at least 8 – 10 glasses a day. Your skin is hydrated if your body is hydrated.
- Also use creams that help in skin regeneration. These creams have ingredients that penetrate into your body and activate the regenerative process.
Prevention is the best medicine. However, if you have stretch marks you can still try above mentioned tips. Also laser surgery is any option too. But foremost it is important to try and make sure that they don’t occur. A healthy diet and plenty of water is the key to success for many things.
