The first thing to understand about the Perricone Diet is that its primary goal is not weight loss!

It's a diet designed by Dr Perricone a well respected clinical dermatologist.

After years of study and research he discovered that inflammation of the bodies cells might be the underlying cause of wrinkles. He believes you are what you eat. By following this diet he says you can get the following benefits.

• Improved metabolism
• Increased bone density
• Smoother and less wrinkled skin
• Weight loss
• Smaller risk of cancer
• Better heart condition
• More energy

To start getting these benefits you will need to follow his three step program which consists of:-

Diet

• Eat good quality protein
• Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables with a low GI (Glycemic Index)
• Drink plenty of fresh water
• Eat fish rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 (Salmon)
• Consume anti-oxidant drinks (green tea)

He recommends you eat five time a day. Three meals and two snacks. No sugar, carrots, duck, potatoes, flour, corn or canned drinks (plus many more). Also avoid coffee (caffine), smoking and alchohol :(

He believes that by eating the correct foods they will act as natural anti-inflamatories. By avoiding high GI foods normal insulin levels in the blood stream can be maintained (no blood sugar spikes).

Supplements

Dr Perricone suggests we take a wide variety of nutritional supplements including Vitamin E, B-complex, Omega-3, etc.

Anti aging creams

Dr Perricone also recommends certain anti-aging creams. His research has found that many antioxidants that we eat also work when placed directly onto the skin.

Weight loss is a side effect of this diet. It turns out that if you follow this diet as well as getting all the benefits of anti-aging (wrinkle free skin) you will lose weight as well!

This diet would appear to a low carb, low fat and high protein diet with its emphasis on controlling blood sugar levels by consuming low GI foods.

On the plus side Dr Perricone recommends regular exercise to complement his diet.

On the negative side this diet would be expensive to follow, as you require high quality protein (salmon etc) and some expensive fruits and berries. If you take the recommended supplements this will increase the cost. The creams would appear be the most expensive items of all some costing hundreds of dollars for a months supply! Although if weight loss was your only goal you could probably miss those out!

Many people who have tried this diet have had excellent results although it can be a challenge to stay on it long term.

If you have the money it may be worth a go.

All the best,

Laura

PS Always consult your health professional before taking any supplements or starting any new diet. Best to be safe :)