In my acupuncture practice in Washington DC, I recommend a diet similar to the Mediterranean diet. Epidemiological studies have shown the Mediterranean diet to be anti-inflammatory and helpful in nutrition and health care value. It is high in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts and seeds, and healthy fats such olive oil. The diet uses fish, poultry and cheese and yogurt when appropriate, moderate amounts of eggs, and limited amounts of red meat (pork, beef, lamb and so on). The diet emphasizes whole grains and reduction in sugar intake and fried food. Modifications are made for athletic performance and for individuals who may have problems with milk products, gluten and blood sugar.
A recent report by the World Health Organization agency for research on cancer suggests that eating processed meats (hot dogs, sausage, and so on) and red meat raises the risk for various forms of cancer. Processed red meats were found to produce a much higher risk of colon cancer than red meats.
Dr. Durana practices acupuncture therapy and complementary medicine for prevention, health care and the treatment of many health problems in Bethesda, Maryland, Washington, DC, and Reston, Virginia.