Eating by Numbers

Forget painting by numbers - eating by numbers is the latest craze

Diet trends in LA last as long as the average celebrity marriage. We asked nutritionist to the stars

and author of Hollywood's Healthiest Diets, Dr Tony Perrone, to explain the A-list eating plan du jour.

'Right now, everyone is following the 45/35/20 diet,' says Dr Perrone, who practises from his clinic near Beverly Hills.

On this diet, Perrone recommends that clients eat between 1,000 and 1,200 calories per day, spread across four meals: breakfast, lunch, a meal in the late afternoon and then dinner.

Each meal should be broken down into the following percentages: 22-28g of protein (45 per cent),

15-21g of carbohydrate (35 per cent) and 6-8g of fat (20 per cent).

'Whereas 15 years ago it was all about Atkins - a high fat, no carb diet - now the emphasis is on high protein and limited carbs, which is a much more healthy way of achieving weight loss,' says Perrone.

'Eating more protein is the key because it is an effective way of controlling hormones such as insulin, cortisol and glucagon. These cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate, which in turn leads to overeating

and an ineffective metabolism.'

Also, because protein is a mild diuretic, it helps to flush you out.

According to Perrone, whose list of clients includes stars such as Jessica Simpson and Janet Jackson, the best protein-rich foods to include in your 45 per cent portion are salmon, turkey and skinless chicken. However, the 'ultimate protein food' favoured by the stars is whey, a pure protein found in cows' milk that contains almost no lactose, cholesterol or fat.

'Whey is among the most beneficial foods in the world. It strengthens the immune system, detoxifies the

body and feeds friendly bacteria in the gut,' says Perrone. It also helps to stimulate the release of appetite suppressants, therefore helping in the fight against fat.

To lose weight LA-style, mix whey powder (available at health food shops) with water and ice to make

a protein shake. Having at least one of these shakes per day, says Perrone, will accelerate fat loss, increase energy and improve skin tone. Add flaxseeds and coconut oil for some natural

fat and as many strawberries and blackberries as you like. 'These fruits are unlimited on the 45/35/20 diet,' says Perrone. 'They contain the right sugars and plenty of antioxidants. You could eat as many of them as you like and never gain weight.'

To contact Dr Perrone, email drtonyperrone@yahoo.com.