The Zone diet is based on the theory that excess insulin, the hormone that helps control our blood sugar levels, makes us fat and keeps us from losing weight. By regulating our blood sugar levels, the body burns fat more efficiently and we lose weight. To control our blood sugar and therefore insulin levels, we need to get the proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in every meal. If we follow a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet with moderate amounts of fat, the hormones can be balanced within the preferred „zone“.

The Zone Diet Theory

The basis for the Zone diet, which was developed by biochemist Barry Sears, Ph.D., is that if we eat the correct ratio of carbohydrate to protein to fat, which is called the 40/30/30 ratio, we can improve our health, weight, and athletic performance. „The Zone“ is Sears’ term for proper hormone balance. The two hormones he focuses on are insulin and eicosanoids, hormone-like substances that regulate inflammation. According to Sears, a high intake of carbohydrates causes weight gain as well as an over-production of insulin. This leads to an imbalance in eicosanoids, which again leads to arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. He therefore advocates to eat a lower carbohydrate, higher protein, and moderate fat diet to balance these hormones within the preferred „zone“.

The Zone Diet Practical Use

The practical use of the Zone diet is rather complicated. The idea is that every meal and snack should provide the 40/30/30 ratio of carbohydrates, proteins, and fat. To help with this, so called „Zone Food Blocks“ have been developed, where each block contains a standardized amount of carbohydrate, protein, and fat. The number of Zone Food Blocks we are allowed, is calculated according to each person’s weight, height, and waist and hip circumferences. Generally, the bigger someone is, the more blocks they are allowed. Creating meals and snacks that have the correct number of Zone Food Blocks is quite a challenge, so it doesn’t surprise that one needs a Zone Diet book which helps to put meals together. Also, there are many pre-packaged Zone Diet meals and snacks to be ordered over the internet, and they are not cheap, either.

The Zone Diet Pros

The Zone Diet recommends eating more fruit and vegetables than many other low-carbohydrate programs and it has fewer dietary restrictions. It also discourages eating low-nutrient carbohydrates, such as crisps, cakes, or chocolate, as well as fatty foods.

The Zone Diet Cons

The Zone Diet is much too complicated and time-consuming if one should want to follow it properly and it demands the purchase of a Zone Diet book. It is definitely not suited for eating out and besides, it recommends eliminating some healthy and nutritious foods, such as wholegrain cereals or cheese.

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