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For years doctors have been telling us that eating junk food doesn't cause acne, and you probably know at least one person who eats candy and chocolate non-stop and still has lovely skin. But recently the medical establishment has begun to give serious consideration to how what we eat impacts our health, and our appearance.

One of the most prominent spokespeople for this cause is Dr. Nicholas Perricone, whose "Wrinkle Cure" system touts salmon as a skin-saving miracle food. What started as a fringe trend--eating fish to get a smoother face--has now blossomed into a popular diet plan, and millions of men and women have given it a go. Even Oprah has sung the praises of this pink-orange fish on her talk show. What's the reason for the popularity of the so-called salmon diet? Simple: it works.

Why Salmon?

Salmon, along with tilapia, trout, herring and sardines, are rich in a substance called omega-3 fatty acids. Don't balk at that term--these fats are terrific for you. In fact, they are crucial to the growth and functioning of our organs, and they supposedly help to diminish dangerous inflammation within the body. (It's that inflammation that can trigger a host of conditions we'd rather avoid, like acne, obesity, diabetes and heart disease.) Among the different types of fish, salmon is one of the richest, chockfull of good-for-you fats and other healthful substances that keep your body functioning like a well-oiled machine.

Did you know that humans are not able to produce omega-3s? That's why it's so important that we obtain them from the foods we eat on a daily basis. When you eat plenty of salmon and stick to a healthy overall diet and lifestyle, you will begin to see dramatic changes in your skin's appearance and texture. Your skin will become smoother, plumper and more moisture-rich. Blemishes will fade and you'll regain the glow you may have had when you were a teenager. Your eyes will likely become brighter, your hair shinier and stronger, and even your mood cheerier!

How Much Should You Eat?

Make salmon (or other fatty fish) a regular part of your meal plan. Aim to have fish about 10 times per week, whether in the form of a morning omelet, a lunchtime salad, or a dinnertime fish filet. Top your whole wheat bagel with lox for a delicious and healthy "booster shot" for your skin. Grill salmon plain and top with a mango relish. There is virtually no limit to what you can do with this delicious and versatile ingredient!

Round out your nutritious lifestyle with plenty of leafy greens and antioxidant-rich fruits, such as berries. A handful of nuts is also a great addition to your daily diet plan. And don't forget to keep the water bottle on hand--drinking plenty of water helps to flush the body of toxins and get your skin looking gorgeous.