Zone Diet Review
The Zone diet was created by Barry Sears, PhD.
The diet plan promotes a 40-30-30 calorie intake. That
is 40% carbohydrates, 30% fat, and 30% protein. The
Zone dietary program is based upon consistent
insulin control coupled with the supplementation of
high-dose fish oil in order to modulate the synthesis
of arachidonic acid.Insulin control is achieved by balancing
protein and carbohydrate at each meal (1-4). The goal
of the Zone diet is to keep a hormonal balance between
fat-storing insulin and the hormone glucagon sand. Glucagon
is responsible fore releasing stored glucose from the
liver when it is needed. Maintaining a balance between
the two hormones is achieved by limiting the amount
of certain food groups. In particular, it can be defined
as keeping the hormone insulin in a tight zone: not
too high, not too low. The Zone Diet is a life-long
hormonal control strategy.
The Zone's eating plan is a combination of a small
amount of low-fat protein, fats, and carbohydrates in
the form of fiber-rich vegetables and fruits. Proteins
should be eaten with every meal and at every snack.
Carbohydrates should be twice the size of the protein
portion. These include vegetables, beans, and whole-grains.
"Unfavorable carbohydrates" such as brown
rice, pasta, bananas, bagels, etc. should be eaten in
smaller portions.
What is good about The Zone Diet Plan
You will achieve weight loss and fitness on
this diet due to the very low calorie intake while you
enjoy foods high in protein such as roast beef and steaks.
Specific meal plans are available to guide you into
the "zone."
What are the drawbacks of The Zone Diet
The diet is very low in carbohydrates, which
can quickly sap your energy levels. It's also low in
fiber and some vitamins and minerals due to the drastic
reduction of foods such as pasta, potatoes, and bread
products. Figuring out how to make each and every meal
and snack follow the 40-30-30 ratio can be daunting.
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