The Soy Zone Diet

The Soy Zone Diet is a variation of the original, very popular Zone Diet developed by Dr. Barry Sears. It is based on his book, "The Soy Zone," published in 2000. Like the original diet, the goal of the Soy Zone Diet is is to transform the body into a condition similar to the zone found by athletes when they are in top performance condition. In the Soy Zone Diet, soy products provide all of the protein in the diet plan. The amount of protein needed in a person's diet is determined by using a Body Mass Index (BMI) calculator.

Basics

The Soy Zone Diet requires a balanced food intake of 40 percent carbohydrates, 30 percent protein and 30 percent fat every day. The dieter must eat five times each day whether hungry or not, and should not let more than five hours pass without eating. The diet recommends eating when not very hungry, so that the body is more energetic and concentration is not dulled by hunger.

Water and Snacks

The plan recommends drinking eight glasses of water every day. Two snacks should be eaten each day, still following the recommended balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat. Each snack should provide about 20 percent of the nutrition of a full meal.

Soy Protein

The Soy Zone Diet is a vegetarian plan in which soy products provide the only source of protein. Therefore, 30 percent of the dietary intake consists of soy-based foods. According to the National Soybean Research Laboratory, soybeans contain more protein than carbohydrates and they only contain unsaturated fats. MedlinePlus indicates that a diet rich in soy can lower blood cholesterol and the Food and Drug Administration states that a daily intake of 25 g of soy protein may lower a person's risk of heart disease.

Soybean Products

Many different, soy-based products are readily available in most stores. These include different varieties of tofu, soft to firm, and other products such as baked, seasoned tofu. Soy milk may also be useful in the Soy Zone Diet, along with different types of soy nuts and soy-based cereals. Soy protein isolate is a powdered product that can be used in shakes and other beverages or added to some recipes. It is available in some supermarkets and most health food stores.

Possible Side Effects

According to MedlinePlus, soybeans are safe and free of side effects for most people. However, some people are allergic to soy and, in others, eating large amounts of soy products may cause stomach upset or diarrhea. People who suffer from gout should not eat soy products regularly because a substance in soybeans may aggravate their condition.