Facts on the Perricone Diet

1. The Perricone Diet is all About Looking Younger

The Perricone Diet, introduced by Nicholas Perricone, MD, mixes a diet plan along with vitamin supplements (up to 25 a day) and pricey lotions, all designed to fight inflammation. According to the Perricone Diet, inflammation is the cause of wrinkles, disease and aging. The basis of the 28-day plan is living longer and looking younger, something that appeals to almost everyone. Dr. Perricone also recommends 20 to 30 minutes of exercise each day.

2. The Perricone Diet Isn't Easy on the Wallet

One of the biggest drawbacks of the Perricone diet is the cost. A three-month supply of creams and lotion plus skin and body supplements deprive your pocketbook of hundreds of dollars. These products are available only in higher end department stores, so those who frequent discount retailers like Wal-Mart are out of luck. Add to that the fact that the grocery list for the Perricone Diet includes pricey items like wild Alaska salmon and fresh berries. There's no way to get out cheap.

3. Perricone Dieters get to Know the Glycemic Index

Foods low on the Glycemic Index are a key part of the Perricone Diet. The Glycemic Index is a way to measure the effect of certain foods on blood sugar levels. Dr. Perricone believes foods that are high on the index cause the dreaded inflammation. Foods that are low on the index include salmon, eggs, leafy greens, berries, apples and avocados. Foods to stay away from include alcohol, grapes, watermelon, rice, sugar and hard cheese. Dr. Perricone also insists that you must eat protein before you eat any carbohydrates.

4. The Perricone Diet Divides the Experts

Many medical experts agree with Dr. Perricone that inflammation, which his diet targets, is a major problem, contributing to arthritis and heart disease. They also like the diet suggestions, like adding plenty of healthy omega-3 fatty acids and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Others believe the Perricone Diet to be too restrictive, citing that it does not meet the necessary dietary guidelines. Another complaint that medical experts have is with the message Dr. Perricone sends. Much of his advice directly contradicts common medical knowledge and common sense (like a snickers bar is preferable to a bran muffin).

5. The Perricone Diet is two Parts Hollywood, one Part Science

One of the reasons the Perricone Diet has met with such success is because of its celebrity endorsements. From rock stars to actors to Oprah, Dr. Perricone used celebrity platforms to market his line of "cosmeceuticals," a made up word referring to his line of supplement and skin care products. Many people spend money on the Perricone Diet because they want to look like a movie star.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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