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The Zone
North American Association for the Study of Obesity recently released a study
confirming that 49% of women in the U.S. and 59% of men have a body mass index
(B.M.I.) over 25, which means more than half of Americans are overweight. This
number increases dramatically in the ages of 50 and 60. In this category, 64%
of women and 73% of men were identified as overweight. Therefore, many people
are getting into the Zone. What is the Zone? The Zone diet is the popular diet
created by doctor Barry Sears. Dr. Sears promotes an even distribution of carbohydrates,
fats and proteins. He has created a ratio of 40-30-30 that can be used as a
guide for anyone hoping to lose weight and stay healthy. By carefully consuming
your calories spread out at 40% carbohydrates, 30% fat and 30% protein, anyone
can achieve a healthier more natural diet. The Zone diets are designed to mimic
the natural pre-agricultural diet that, as Dr. Sears claims; our bodies are
still wired for. Our ancestors mainly lived off of meat and fruits and vegetables,
while now, our diets are packed full of processed breads and cereals. Because
this is not a ‘natural’ diet for humans we suffer negative side effects of this
diet. This includes weight gain, diabetes and other ailments that can arise
from an imbalance of insulin.
Insulin control is achieved by balancing protein and carbohydrates at each
meal. The insulin-control component of the Zone dietary program can be achieved
with moderate consumption of all three groups. The recommended serving of protein
that can be considered ‘moderate’ is about the size of the palm of your hand.
Therefore, a chicken breast would be the perfect size. The majority of carbohydrates
should come from vegetables and fruits, with starches (such bread, potatoes,
rice, and pasta) used as condiments. Finally, most of the fat should consist
of heart healthy monounsaturated fat. Dieters must try and avoid trans-saturated
fats. This is a difficult task considering many of today’s processed foods contain
these fats.
If this balance is achieved you will be in The Zone, a narrow window of opportunity
that can facilitate weight loss and a healthier life.
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