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The Zone diet focuses on a ratio of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats at 40%, 30%, and 30%, respectively, in order to try and obtain a more efficient caloric intake for the body.

Where Did It Originate?

Barry Sears, a biochemist and writer, developed this diet in such books as �Mastering the Zone�, �The Zone�, �The Anti-Aging Zone�, and others.

How Does It Work/Details

Sears believes, since it is unable to store fat and burn fat at the same time, that the body requires a period of time in order to adjust from the burning process to the storing process and vice versa. The Zone diet is said to be able to make the body's caloric balance more efficient, allowing the body to be free from having to store excess calories as fat, thereby decreasing weight. In addition, Sears emphasizes that low-fat diets increase the production of insulin, thereby causing the body to store more fat. The Zone diet avoids this low-fat attitude, instead suggesting that fat consumption is required in order for the body to burn fat.


Benefits

One of the major benefits to the Zone diet is that its advocates tend to suffer the fewest number of side-effects, such as hunger and fatigue. This in itself may make the diet worth an attempt, especially if a person has tried diets in the past and been unable to stick with it due to not being able to deal with such side effects. In addition to burning fat, users of the Zone diet tend to build more muscle mass than users of other diets.

Caveats

Due to the high protein intake, low intake of essential nutrients, and the general lack of information concerning the long-term effects of the Zone diet, the American Heart Association does not recommend the Zone diet. Sears, however, continues to advocate the Zone diet, arguing that its description as a �high-protein� diet is inaccurate, and points out that the daily protein intake for users is determined based on activity level and lean body mass.

Should I Try It?

The Zone diet is not a long term solution to weight loss. While more efficient processing of calories is one way to control your weight, you�ll also need to carefully balance the types of calories consumed. In addition, dieters should always reach out for the support that will make them likely to succeed. Education and coaching from nutritionists and trainers is likely to underline and cement any of your weight loss efforts.

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