The Zone Diet uses the concept of obtaining calories from a ratio of carbohydrates, protein and fats; specifically 40:30:30. By using this ratio to for your daily meals it promotes balance to your hormones and insulin levels. A benefit claimed by this diet besides weight loss is that this hormone balance is a natural anti-inflammatory that is good for your heart and health.
Carbohydrates—you should focus on eating fruit and vegetables for your carbohydrate portion of your meal and not the “traditional” meal carbohydrates that we think of such as starches, rice, pastas and grains due to the high fat content. This should fill up 2/3 of your plate.
Proteins—these should be about the size of a small chicken breast or the palm of your hand (size and width). This should fill up 1/3 of your plate.
Fats—such as olive oil, slivered almonds, walnuts, peanuts and avocado. This would be an addition or dash to your plate.
The Best Diets That Work Overview
Low to High cost – you can do this diet for a low investment by adjusting your meal planning and grocery shopping; you can research diet details online or buy a book. Or if you prefer to order some Zone diet foods, snacks and a prepackaged meal plan you can order through the Zone website which would be a Medium to High cost.
Low time – Your time invested is in learning what you should be eating and prep towards all of your meals.
Self discipline – You will need to keep track of what you are eating to ensure that you are following the ratio guidelines.
Weight loss – This diet is suitable to lose a few to a lot of pounds over a period of time. Also, this diet plan will aid in maintaining weight lost.
Long term – Once you are familiar and develop eating habits for this diet plan it is an easy diet that works.
Other – For some people this diet can be difficult since it requires that you give up carbohydrates such as pasta, rice and potatoes.