The Zone Diet, launched by Barry Sears M.D. in his 1995 book, "Enter the Zone," is based on the belief that dietary fat and caloric intake do not contribute to weight gain, but instead all weight gain can be attributed to high insulin levels. Similar to, although not as restrictive as the Atkins diet, the Zone Diet is another version of the low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet. According to MayoClinic.com, there is little scientific evidence to support Sears' insulin theory for weight gain.
Heart Disease
Animal-based protein sources, such as meat and eggs, are often high in saturated fats and cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association, increased intake of saturated fats and cholesterol encouraged by high-protein diets such as the Zone Diet can increase your risk for heart disease, heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In addition, the Zone Diet restricts your intake of carbohydrates, which reduces your consumption of essential whole grains such as whole wheat, bran and oats. These have been proven to reduce your risk of heart disease and high cholesterol, notes the American Heart Association.
Kidney Problems
Individuals who have poor kidney function due to kidney disease or diabetes have trouble using and properly processing protein. A protein-intensive diet can exacerbate these conditions, increasing your risk of kidney damage and kidney failure, notes James Anderson, M.D., professor of medicine and clinical nutrition at the University of Kentucky School of Medicine.
Nutritional Deficiency
Zone Diet critic John McDougall, M.D., calls the Zone Diet a "semi-starvation diet," that promotes weight loss not through control of insulin levels, but by cutting 1000 calories per day from the healthy level of caloric intake recommended for an adult. In addition, restrictions on grains, fruits, vegetables and other healthy sources of carbohydrates can deprive your body of vitamins, minerals, sources of fiber and antioxidants, increasing your risk for many serious diseases and conditions, including cancer.
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