Dr. Nicholas Perricone is a dermatologist, bestselling author and adjunct professor at Michigan State University's college of human medicine. He created and promoted his anti inflammatory diet in a series of books published from 2001 to 2007, beginning with the book "The Wrinkle Cure." Dr. Perricone has been featured on "Oprah," "The Today Show," "Good Morning America" and CNN.
Theory
Dr. Perricone believes that aging begins with inflammation at the cellular level. He believes that inflammation can be caused by a variety of environmental factors, including ultraviolet light, diet and cigarette smoking, as well as by free radicals produced by your own body. According to Dr. Perricone, breakouts, loss of firmness and wrinkles all stem from inflammation. He seeks to diminish the aging process via a holistic system that incorporates nutrition, his line of skin care products and "nutriceutical supplements". Dr. Perricone takes his claims beyond skin care, stating that an anti-inflammatory diet can help stimulate weight loss and improve your physique.
Suggested Foods
Dr. Perricone's Anti Inflammatory diet emphasizes foods that reduce inflammation. He advises consuming low-glycemic carbohydrates like fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains. Low-glycemic carbohydrates are digested and absorbed more slowly so they don't cause a sharp rise in your blood sugar. He also advises consuming high-quality protein from fish, chicken and tofu, and healthy fats from nuts, olive oil and seeds. Dr. Perricone's list of top 10 foods includes salmon, flax seed, chili peppers, green vegetables, turmeric, olives, avocado, apples, yogurt and cinnamon. Water and green tea are also parts of Dr. Perricone's anti-inflammatory diet.
Fish
According to Diet.com, Dr. Perricone recommends consuming at least five servings of salmon per week. Fish low in mercury, like salmon, may be safe to consume on a daily basis, but large amounts of fish consumption can lead to mercury poisoning. The Food and Drug Administration recommends that women and children consume only two servings of fish per week.
Precautions
Dr. Perricone has conducted case studies on his diet, but his claims about inflammation reduction or improved skin appearance are not substantiated by peer-reviewed research. His web site lists only relevant presentations, case studies and testimonials. Consult your doctor before beginning Dr. Perricone's anti inflammatory diet. The second phase of the diet involves consuming several supplements, which may be a problem if you are pregnant or have a pre-existing health problem.
