Could the secret to glowing, youthful skin be hiding in your brain?
Dr. Nicholas Perricone, a leading dermatologist and nutritionist, has spent decades warning that chronic inflammation is one of the biggest culprits behind visible aging and disease.
“Now, we’ve discovered the key to turning it off,” he told The Post.
In his new book, “The Beauty Molecule: Introducing Neuroceuticals, the Breakthrough for Ageless Beauty,” Perricone dives into the crucial role the so-called “beauty molecule” plays in fighting inflammation and aging, while also revealing the best foods to boost its production in your body. Read on for a sneak peek.
But first: What is the “beauty molecule”?
Its technical name is acetylcholine. This chemical messenger is the primary neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic nervous system, which plays a key role in regulating inflammation in the body.
The so-called “beauty molecule” is also crucial for promoting cellular vitality and maintaining healthy, vibrant skin.
In his book, Perricone explains that acetylcholine helps repair damaged mitochondria and eliminate dysfunctional cells — both major contributors to aging.
Acetylcholine also supports skin elasticity and tone by stimulating the release of nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels, boosting hydration and giving skin a more radiant, youthful appearance.
Beyond that, acetylcholine plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle tone by aiding muscle contraction and movement.
Unfortunately, as we get older, our acetylcholine production naturally declines, which Perricone said can lead to a visible loss of muscle tone and skin tightness.
“Instead of staying short and tight, the muscles become long and relaxed, resulting in a sagging face and body,” Perricone said. “The way to improve muscle tone is to increase [acetylcholine] levels.”
Foods that fuel the beauty molecule
While our acetylcholine levels drop as we age, there are easy ways to give your “beauty molecule” a boost at any stage of life.
For example, Perricone said that supplements like DMAE can increase your production of acetylcholine, keeping your skin and muscles looking and feeling young.
But if you prefer the natural route, foods rich in choline — an essential nutrient that the body needs to produce acetylcholine — can help.
Top dietary sources of choline include animal-based foods like grass-fed beef, free-range poultry, fish dairy and eggs.
If you’re plant based, cruciferous veggies like broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are packed with choline, along with certain beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains.
Perricone said these powerhouse foods not only stimulate acetylcholine production, but also fight inflammation and protect mitochondria, both vital for aging.
The payoff? Smoother skin, more muscle tone, weight loss and a glowing complexion.
“If you have adequate protein, essential fatty acids and a good supply of colorful greens, everything works better,” Perricone said.
Foods that age you
Certain foods can trigger inflammation, which hampers production of the “beauty molecule” and accelerates the aging process.
Perricone recommends steering clear of red and processed meats, refined carbs like white bread, pasta and pastries, as well as sugary treats like candy and soda.
Trans fats — typically found in margarine, fried foods and baked goods — also fuel inflammation, along with alcohol, which can further damage your skin and overall appearance.
“At this point, the thought of doing without foods that have become mainstays may seem like a big sacrifice,” Perricone writes in his new book.
“I assure you that the benefits of eating an anti-inflammatory diet will outweigh any sacrifice you think you are making,” he added.
