The Zone Diet: insulin control for weight loss

Barry Sears developed the Zone Diet. Sears is a former researcher in biotechnology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States. Today, the Zone diet remains popular and has quite a following, including many celebrities.

What is the Zone diet?

The Zone diet is a type of diet that focuses mainly on controlling insulin. Research shows that controlling insulin can increase fat loss and decrease the risk for heart disease.

How do you do the Zone diet?

The Zone diet focuses on consistent insulin control with the supplementation of high-dose fish oil. Insulin control means balancing protein and carbohydrate intake at each meal. Here are the basics of the Zone diet:

Protein. The Zone diet recommends that if you eat low-fat protein during a meal, the protein should be no larger than the size and thickness of the palm of your hand. Any amount of protein larger than the size of your palm is too much protein for that meal.
Carbo-hydrates. Carbo-hydrates in the diet should come vegetables and fruits.
Starches. Starches, which come from bread, potatoes, rice and pasta, are used only sparingly in the Zone diet.
Fat. Fat in the Zone diet should be monounsaturated fat, which is healthier for the heart.
Fish Oil. The Zone diet recommends supplementation with high-dose fish oil. Fish oil has been shown to be good for the heart.

Unlike several other popular diets, the Zone diet focus on a balance of healthy food groups. The Zone diet is one of the more healthy diets to try.

How do I know if the Zone diet is right for me?

With so many diets plans available, only your physician can tell you if the Zone diet will meet your weight loss and weight maintenance needs. Don't start any diet without first talking with your physician.

If I have diabetes, can I use the Zone diet?

It's important for those with diabetes to keep their insulin levels in check. Though the Zone diet focuses on insulin control, those with diabetes should talk to their physicians before starting the Zone diet. The Zone diet may be too restrictive for some people with diabetes.

Do I have to exercise if I do the Zone diet?

Yes, exercise is always a recommended part of any weight loss plan. Talk to your doctor to learn more about exercise and how to work exercise into your daily routine.

Can children do the Zone diet?

If your child is overweight, consult with your child's physician. Children require different amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fats than adults, so the Zone diet may be too restrictive for their nutritional needs.

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