1. What is the Zone and how do you get There?
"Entering the Zone" by Barry Sears is a controversial and widely read book based on a diet that emphasizes eating high protein along with low carbohydrate foods. Sears discusses the importance of maintaining a ratio of 30 percent calories received from protein, 30 percent from fat and 40 percent from eating appropriate or "good" carbohydrates. The Zone diet is based on the premise that through balancing the correct ratio of protein, fat and carbohydrates, the body's insulin production is properly controlled. When insulin levels are at the correct level, the body then burns fat effectively while maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. According to Sears, the Zone is the place where we perform better, have heightened mental focus, are fit and balanced, feel better about ourselves and are thus able to enjoy life more fully.
2. What are Eicosanoids?
Sears discusses the importance of good and bad "eicosanoids." Eicosanoids are a hormone-like substance that controls our vital functions such as the cardiovascular system, immune system and nervous system. According to Sears, when insulin levels are high, bad eicosanoids are produced and our vital functions are compromised. The purpose of the Zone diet is to keep these levels in check.
3. Mindful Eating
The strength of the Zone diet lies in practicing mindful eating. Adhering to the 30-30-40 ratio described above, Zone dieters are guided to eat low fat protein sources such as beans, fish and poultry; fats such as nuts, olive oil and canola oil, low fat cottage cheese, almonds and avocados; and plenty of fruits and vegetables. The Zone eliminates "bad carbohydrates" such as pasta and pizza, favoring low glycemic index foods that boost energy and performance levels while helping to burn fat. An intake of 800 to 1200 calories per day is recommended as the ideal way to maintain the Zone. Snacks and small meals throughout the day are encouraged.
4. Enhanced Performance
Advocates of the Zone diet say it improves energy levels, physical endurance, mental clarity and promotes permanent weight loss. The Zone is popular with athletes as it enhances stamina levels necessary for competition. Many popular performers are advocates of the Zone as it helps maintain their necessary physical aesthetic.
5. Changing Your Lifestyle
Because of the Zone's ability to normalize insulin levels, food cravings are ultimately eliminated, making it easier for dieters to stay on course. Because portions are smaller and ingested frequently, the Zone helps to change dieters' lifestyles. Once eating patterns are changed, it is easy to enter the Zone, according to Sears and other Zone advocates. The Zone adherents claim that they never feel deprived because no one food source is ever restricted. Successful adherents to the Zone see gradual and permanent weight loss due to habit patterns becoming ingrained through their commitment to following the diet.
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