Dr. Nicholas Perricone, inventor of the Perricone Prescription, calls his diet an anti-inflammatory program. According to Dr. Perricone, inflammation is the bad guy, causing everything from heart disease to sagging skin. He says many foods cause inflammation, and he’s got a long list of foods to avoid, including bread, beef, alcohol and coffee. The key to the Perricone Prescription is cutting out processed foods and limiting red meat while increasing antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and salmon — lots of salmon. Follow this diet according to Dr. Perricone, you will not only lose weight, but you will reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer, improve your mood, and you’ll have beautiful skin. Supplements and skin creams are also part of the Perricone Prescription, but only the diet portion will be dealt with here.

Diet Fundamentals:

• Eat three meals a day.
• Eat two snacks a day.
• Eat protein with every meal and snack.
• Eat food high in antioxidants.
• Eat wild Alaskan salmon several times a week.
• Eat foods low in glycemic carbs (whole grains, high fiber).
• Eat yogurt and kefir daily.
• Add good fats like avocado, nuts and olive oil.
• Incorporate cardio exercise five days a week.
• Drink lots of water.