Dr. Perricone's Diet

Dermatologist Nicholas Perricone claims his dietary plan fights inflammation at the cellular level, which he believes causes a number of health problems. Called the Perricone Diet, his plan promotes foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lean proteins and antioxidants and that are low in carbohydrates and have a low glycemic index.

What to Eat

• The Perricone Diet prescribes eating breakfast, lunch, dinner and two snacks each day. One of the diet's main foods is cold-water fish, particularly wild salmon. Other recommended foods include citrus fruits, nuts, beans, green vegetables, berries and oatmeal. Adherents also should drink green tea and eight to 10 glasses of spring water daily.

What not to Eat

• The diet excludes foods with a high glycemic index. These include alcoholic beverages, coffee, beef, bread, pizza, pasta and even certain fruits and vegetables, such as watermelons, bananas and carrots.

Purported Benefits

• Dr. Perricone claims his diet will reduce wrinkles, slow the aging process and help with weight loss. In addition, he insists that following the diet reduces a person's chance of developing diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Criticism

• Some experts criticize the diet's emphasis on eating fish, as fish often contain toxins such as mercury. Critics also cite a lack of scientific support for some of Perricone's claims, and some believe the diet's cost and strictures would discourage people from staying on it. Finally, some view Perricone's selling costly lotions and supplements to accompany his diet as additional cause for skepticism.