The Zone Diet, developed by biochemist Barry Sears, is like a refinement of the other existing diets such as the Atkins Diet. It is also essentially a low-carb diet, but it is not that restrictive of the carbohydrate intake. The core or essence of the zone diet is its “zoning”, or delegating limits to, one’s intake of the specific food type. It is in this technique that Sears believes one can achieve proper hormone balance.

The suggested ideal ratio of carbohydrates to proteins to fats, according to the Zone Diet is, “40:30:30” respectively. This simple graphic model is a good example of how to these numbers project to one’s Your browser may not support display of this image.Your browser may not support display of this image.Your browser may not support display of this image.everyday meal.

One’s plate is divided into specific sections or “zones” that represent carbohydrates, protein and fats respectively. The carbohydrates in the 2/3 of your plate can be fruits and vegetables. On the other 1/3 of your plate is protein which can be lean meat like chicken or fish. And lastly, to complete the serving, one can add a dash of healthy fat like olives. Another way looking at this illustration is by thinking that your plate should be divided such that for every 1 gram of fat, 2 grams of protein and 3 grams of carbohydrates are present. This is the Zone 1-2-3 Method.

Balancing one’s hormone is the goal of the Zone Diet. It is believed that by achieving the balance between carbohydrates, proteins and fats, one can balance the hormones regulating one’s fat. Three hormones are highlighted here: (1) insulin, (2) glucagon, and (3) eicosanoids. Insulin or the “storage hormone” is said to be a factor in developing excess fats. Glucagon or the “mobilization hormone” gives one the energy to perform mental and physical activities. And lastly, eicosanoids are the hormones that control the silent inflammation. It is also the “master hormone” that indirectly affects and controls other hormones of the body.

With the Zone Diet, one can expect to lose weight while preventing hunger and fatigue. The proper balance of carbohydrates, fats and protein in the Zone Diet can help to trim down and not compromise the body’s ability to perform its functions.

In a non-scientific study made by the PBS documentary show Scientific American Frontier, the Zone Diet won in a head-to-head match against other rival diet programs. The participants in the Zone Diet lost the most significant amount weight, and also reported to having the easiest adjustment to the program.

REFERENCES:

http://www.zonediet.com/EATING/Overview/tabid/79/Default.aspx

http://www.zonediet.com/EATING/ZoneDietExplained/tabid/81/Default.aspx

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zone_diet

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