Eicosanoids are a type of naturally occurring hormone derived from omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, essential fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function and development and are often found in foods such as whole grains, fish, olive oil, garlic, fresh fruits and vegetables. Since the Zone Diet emphasizes a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, dieters can maintain a healthy supply of eicosanoids by focusing on foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids.
Eicosanoids
Eicosanoids are a slightly different type of hormone than the standard endocrine hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. According to the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, eicosanoids act as messengers and play an essential role in basic bodily functions, such as inflammation management. Although more evidence is required to recommend eicosanoids as an effective treatment method for condition, its roles in cellular reproduction and blood consistency suggest eicosanoids may play a necessary role for general health.
Zone Diet
The Zone Diet is a type of athletic diet that divides your nutrient intake into three separate sections. To follow it, you must consume 40 percent of your calories from carbohydrates, 30 percent from protein and 30 percent from fats. According to a report published in a 1999 issue of the journal "Sports Medicine," the premise of the Zone Diet is that if you eat more fats and protein, your body receives more essential fatty acids and creates more eicosanoids, which in turn widen the blood vessels of your muscles and increase sports performance. Unfortunately, no human evidence supports this theory, and the Zone Diet isn't considered an effective hormone-altering diet.
Connection
The Dr. Nancy Dunne website breaks eicosanoids into two different types -- Series One and Series Two. Series One eicosanoids promote healthy oxygen levels in the blood and are generally derived when consuming a balanced diet of fresh whole foods, adequate protein and healthy fats. In theory, a dieter following the Zone Diet should be able to fortify their beneficial Series One eicosanoids by eating foods such as whole grains, lean proteins, and fats such as avocadoes and olive oil. Series Two eicosanoids, sometimes referred to as harmful eicosanoids, have a narrowing effect on the blood vessels that can encourage events such as heart attacks and strokes. These eicosanoids are typically created in larger amounts when eating excessive amounts of simple carbohydrates such as processed and sugary foods, which can cause spikes in insulin and blood sugar.
Safety Concern
Talk to your doctor before making any drastic changes to your diet. Although the Zone Diet may be effective for some people, it may not be ideal for everyone. When selecting foods, maximize your intake of essential vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids by eating plenty of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean proteins.
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