Dr. Nicholas Perricone's Anti-Inflammatory Diet was researched and developed by Dr. Perricone, a certified clinical and research dermatologist. Perricone's work and research findings have been detailed in numerous best-selling books including the 2002 "The Perricone Prescription" and the recent 2007 "Ageless Face, Ageless Mind." The diet is centered around Perricone's findings that inflammation in the body's cells and tissues contribute to wrinkles, increased aging and poor health. There is no proven scientific research that this diet plan is superior to other diet plans however, and precautions should be taken. Consult with a health professional prior to initiating this diet to avoid adverse health risks.
Anti-Inflammatory
Dr. Perricone's diet plan centers around eating anti-inflammatory foods to help prevent tissue damage that leads to wrinkles and poor skin health such as rashes and breakouts. In addition to improving your appearance, anti-inflammatory foods are also meant to decrease inflammation in the body that can lead to serious diseases, including heart disease, stroke and digestive disorders. The foods permitted on the diet plan are rich in antioxidants, which protect against and prevent diseases, high blood pressure and cholesterol, obesity and cancers.
Foods Permitted
The Perricone diet centers around foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, protein and fiber. The diet is low in carbohydrates, particularly those that are high on the glycemic index, as they increase blood sugar levels leading to hunger cravings and inflammation in the body's cells. Recommeded foods include lean proteins such as chicken, fish and tofu; healthy fats from fish such as salmon, herring and mackerel, olive oils, nuts and seeds; beverages such as spring water and antioxidant-rich green tea; and low-glycemic carbs that are high in fiber such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, beans and lentils.
Diet Plan
The Anti-Inflammatory Diet advocates five daily meals consisting of breakfast, lunch, dinner and two daily snacks. According to Dr. Perricone in "The Perricone Prescription," protein foods should form the largest part of your meal and be eaten first. Protein has a satiating effect on the appetite and stabilizes blood sugar levels, preventing increased hunger cravings that lead to excessive caloric intake. Perricone also encourages the use of various dietary supplements on his plan, many of which are to be purchased from his own company for a fee and is further detailed in his books. The diet plan encourages daily exercise of walking or jogging for approximately 20 to 30 minutes to assist in weight loss and improve blood circulation.
Precautions
Dr. Nicholas Perricone's Anti-Inflammatory Diet may be a healthy diet plan for you to assist in weight loss or improving health. The diet plan is moderate in calorie intake and focuses predominately on healthy foods that will decrease the risk of weight gain, disease and the aging process. However, individual results vary and according to Diet.com, the diet is not endorsed by the American Dietetic Association as it is very low glycemic and encourages greater than average fish intakes. Furthermore, Perricone recommends the use of dietary supplements such as various vitamins and minerals that should be taken and advised only with a physician's consent. Consult with a health professional particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding and taking prescription medications.
References
- "The Perricone Prescription: A Physician's 28-Day Program For Total Body and Face Rejuvenation"; Nicholas Perricone, MD.; 2002
- Diet.com: Perricone Diet
- Perricone MD: About Dr. Perricone
