Among the benefits claimed by the Zone Diet are more stable blood sugar levels, improved mental focus, more energy and healthier blood pressure levels. Dr. Barry Sears, the founder of the Zone Diet, says that reducing cellular inflammation is the key to weight management. The Zone Diet regulates macronutrient intake, promoting a ratio of 40-30-30 from carbohydrates, protein and fat, respectively. Sears claims that to reduce cellular inflammation, the proper balance of food, omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols is essential.
Claims
Sears asserts that the fish oil supplement he developed -- namely OmegaRX -- helps your body use stored fat for energy, which in turn helps you burn fat faster. Fish oil plays a key role in reducing inflammation in fat cells, according to Sears. Fish oil is composed of docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA. Sears claims to have found the ideal combination of DHA and EPA to control cellular inflammation.
Benefits
Besides Sears's claims that fish oil reduces inflammation to promote weight loss, other documented benefits of fish oil have been established. MayoClinic.com cites strong scientific evidence that fish oil may be beneficial in lowering triglyceride levels, improving blood pressure levels and reducing the risk of future heart attacks in individuals with a history of heart attacks. MedlinePlus rates fish oil as possibly effective in promoting weight loss and lowering blood sugar levels in people with unhealthy body weights. In combination with exercise, a daily 6 g fish oil supplement containing 260 mg of DHA and 60 mg of EPA helps reduce body fat.
Dosage
The fish oil supplement promoted by the Zone Diet provides 4 g of fat, including 1,600 mg of EPA and 800 mg of DHA, per serving. Four capsules equal one serving and supply an amount of omega-3 fatty acids equivalent to 4 oz. of Alaska salmon, according to the diet's website. The Zone program also includes a polyphenol supplement, which is purported to inhibit the oxidation of omega-3s and help limit the cellular inflammation Sears asserts is responsible for weight gain.
Considerations
The Zone Diet qualifies as a low-carb diet and a glycemic index diet. The protein intake falls within the general recommendation of 10 to 35 percent of calories from protein. The Zone Diet, however, may not be appropriate for everyone. If you have diet-related illnesses, work with your doctor to plan an eating plan that meets your needs. Consult with your doctor about your supplement needs to determine if fish oil supplements are right for you. Natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, lake trout, albacore tuna, mackerel and herring.
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