The Zone Diet, created by Dr. Barry Sears, is a low-carbohydrate, high-protein weight loss plan that promises health improvements such as stabilized blood glucose and insulin levels. Enter the Zone Diet alleges that better control over glucose and insulin release is what allows for weight loss for Zone dieters. Research from Dr. Anthony Dowell, a surgeon from the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, has indicated that the Zone feature may also help improve symptoms in patients with IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
IBS
IBS is a condition of the digestive tract that can result in cramping, gas, constipation, diarrhea and bloating. According to Dr. Dowell, the causes of IBS are currently unknown, though he proposes that the human digestive tract may not be capable of handling large quantities of refined carbohydrates, which produce glucose during digestion. The excess insulin released to clear glucose from the bloodstream may somehow result in the symptoms associated with IBS. The Zone Diet, which limits the intake of refined carbohydrates, may help reduce these symptoms.
Glycemic Index
Foods with a high glycemic index are those made from refined, white flour or those that are high in starch. Foods like potatoes, pasta, white bread, cookies or cake are all considered to have a high glycemic index and cause a rapid spike in blood glucose levels, followed by a drastic drop. These are the foods that are recommended to be restricted on the Zone Diet as well as the foods Dr. Dowell suggests as the possible culprits for IBS symptoms. Foods with a lower glycemic index, like vegetables and some fruits, are the preferred source of carbohydrates for Zone dieters.
Zone Research
Dr. Dowell conducted research over the course of a year, including 35 subjects, aged 35 to 75 years. All test subjects had IBS and were prescribed the Zone Diet. After a year, 10 of the 26 subjects who remained compliant with the diet reported improved symptoms. Sixteen of the 26 final subjects reported greatly improved symptoms.
Considerations
More research is necessary to determine any specific dietary treatment for IBS. Currently, the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders suggests IBS patients pay careful attention to what they eat and avoid only those foods that cause gastric upset. Common digestive irritants are caffeine, alcohol, fried foods or gassy vegetables and legumes. Common foods that trigger allergies, like dairy, seafood or nuts, may cause IBS flare-ups. Always consult your doctor before attempting any change in diet.
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