“The Zone”, Again

Remember that in athletics, “the zone”, meaning the peak performance level of the human body, is believed to last only a few minutes. Dr. Barry Sears claims that eating a 40-30-30 ratio of carbs, proteins and fats at one meal helps the body reach and stay in The Zone for approximately five hours. A Zone snack is said to keep you in the Zone for two to two-and-a-half hours. With three Zone meals and two Zone snacks every day, according to Dr. Sears' theory, someone could spend a lifetime in The Zone. That is why Zone Diet is considered not only a weight-loss diet, but also a way of life.

What Is the 40-30-30 Ratio?

The USDA food pyramid mentioned before recommends eating approximately 55% carbs, 15% protein and 30% fat at every meal. Dr. Sears believes that this eating scheme, which is based on carbohydrates (especially processed grains), is completely wrong. It has led, he thinks, to the high rates of obesity and other conditions which are typical of modern America.

Dr. Barry Sears's Zone Diet Plan, he believes, is appropriate to our DNA structure. This is the 40-30-30 plan, the key principle of the Zone Diet which leads to maintenance of the correct level of insulin.

The Zone Diet Basics

  • Eat the correct ratio of 40% carbohydrate, 30% protein and 30% fat at every meal;
  • Eat five times a day, whether you feel hungry or not: have three Zone meals and two Zone snacks;
  • Don't let more than five hours pass without eating;
  • Eat preferably when you are not so hungry, and your brain activity and concentration level are good. When you are hungry, your insulin level is too low. You are not in the Zone any longer.
  • Drink eight glasses of water every day (1 glass equals 8 ounces);
  • Eat only low fat protein, keep fruits and vegetables as your favorite source of carbohydrates, and add a dash of mono saturated fat (e.g. olive oil) to every meal;
  • A Zone diet meal should not lead to a calorie intake higher than 500kcal. A Zone Diet snack should provide 100kcal.
  • Use pasta, bread and other grain-foods only as a “condiment” for your meals.
  • Exercise moderately to keep your body in a good shape.
  • Don't worry if you leave the diet once, Dr. Sears says. With the next 40-30-30 meal you'll get right back into the Zone.