Review of the diet for the region – hormonal balance and effective weight loss

The Zone Diet is a nutritional program developed by the famous biochemist Dr. Barry Sears. This diet aims to achieve Hormonal balance Optimized to promote health, weight management and well-being. It depends on the precise distribution of macronutrients: 40% carbohydrates, 30% proteins, 30% fats.

By controlling the glycemic index of foods consumed and maintaining this balance, The Zone Diet helps regulate key hormones such as insulin, thus improving athletic performance and promoting health. Lose weight correct⁽¹⁾.

In this article, I will explain in detail the principles of the zone diet, its advantages and disadvantages, and how to apply it.

Principles of the region's diet

Macronutrient balance: 40-30-30

The Zone diet is based on a precise distribution of macronutrients: 40% carbohydrates, 30% proteins and 30% fats. This ratio helps create hormonal balance, including controlling insulin levels and other key hormones.

The goal is to maintain the body's optimal functioning zone, where inflammation is reduced and health is promoted.

Blocks: A simple way to control parts

The Zone Diet uses a “bulk” system to determine the amounts of each macronutrient to be consumed during each meal and snack.

• 1 block of carbs = 9 grams of carbs (no fiber);
• 1 protein block = 7 grams of protein;
• 1 mass of fat = 1.5 grams of fat.

To determine the amount of a particular food that forms a mass, you can consult a Online table Or books about the region's diet. Women should consume 11 pieces per day, while men should consume 14 pieces. This system ensures a balanced intake of carbohydrates, protein and fats throughout the day, without excess or deficiency.

Foods rich in nutrients and low on the glycemic index

Eating on The Zone diet focuses on nutrient-dense foods with a low glycemic index (GI).

The digestive system measures the effect of carbohydrates on blood sugar levels. It is preferable to eat foods with a low glycemic index because they help maintain stable blood sugar levels and control insulin production.

Carbohydrates come primarily from fruits and vegetables, while proteins come from low-fat sources such as chicken, turkey, or fish.

Fats are provided by healthy fats, such as olive oil, almonds and avocado.

Application mode

Meals and snacks in the area

On The Zone diet, people eat three meals and one snack per day. Each meal should consist of one-third protein, two-thirds carbohydrates, and a small amount of fat.

Foods high in sugar and starch, such as cereals, pasta and bread, should be eaten in moderation, rather than as condiments rather than main dishes.

Vegetables and fruits with a high glycemic index, such as corn, carrots, bananas and raisins, are also placed on the list of “unpreferred” foods.

Fatty meats and egg yolks are sources of “bad fats” in The Zone Diet.

Respect rules and timetables

To achieve the best results, it is important to follow the rules of The Zone diet. People should eat a meal within an hour of waking up, not go more than five hours without eating, and eat a light snack before bed.

Respecting these schedules promotes better insulin control and hormonal balance.

Count calories

Although The Zone Diet emphasizes macronutrient balance, calories are also important. Women are limited to about 1,200 calories per day, while men are limited to 1,500 calories.

Physical exercise

The Zone Diet calls for moderate but regular physical activity, such as 30 minutes of aerobic exercise daily (brisk walking is recommended) and 5 to 10 minutes of intense exercise daily.

Ability to adapt to the diet of the region

The Zone Diet is flexible and can be adapted to different dietary preferences and restrictions. Vegetarians can easily follow this diet, as two-thirds of the plate consists of fruits and vegetables.

People on a gluten-free diet can also follow The Zone diet without difficulty, as it discourages the consumption of wheat, barley and rye products.

However, it is essential to check food labels carefully to avoid gluten completely.

Finally, The Zone diet is also suitable for people on a low-salt diet, as it favors fresh ingredients rather than processed foods high in sodium.

Pros and cons

Health benefits

The region's diet has many health benefits. First, it encourages the consumption of low-glycemic index foods, which promotes stable blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Additionally, balancing macronutrients helps control inflammation, which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve athletic performance.

Difficulties faced by the system

Although the zone diet has health benefits, it also has some drawbacks.

One of the main challenges is respecting the exact proportions of macronutrients in each meal. This can be complex and requires careful planning.

Favorite foods and avoid them

Foods for the benefit

On The Zone Diet, it's important to choose foods that promote…Hormonal balance. Here are some examples of favorite foods:

• Carbohydrates : Non-starchy vegetables, low-GI fruits, and whole grains;
• Proteins : Lean meat, fish, poultry, tofu, and legumes;
• Fats : Olive oil, rapeseed, avocado, nuts and seeds.

Foods to avoid

Some foods on The Zone diet should be avoided due to their effects on blood sugar and inflammation. Here are some examples:

• Carbohydrates : sugar, honey, syrup, jams, pastries, soft drinks;
• Proteins : Fatty meats, cold cuts, and fatty cheeses;
• Fats : Hydrogenated vegetable oils, vegetable ghee, animal fats.

Example of a typical list

To help you understand how to plan your meals on The Zone Diet, here's an example of a typical menu:

• breakfast : Oatmeal with almond milk, berries and almonds;
• Snack : Natural yogurt with a little honey and some nuts;
• lunch : A salad consisting of grilled chicken, assorted vegetables, quinoa and olive oil dressing;
• Snack : Red fruit juice and yogurt;
• dinner : Grilled salmon fillet, steamed vegetables and brown rice.

Your frequently asked questions

What to remember

The Zone Diet promises healthy, lasting weight loss through macronutrient balance and insulin control. Although some of Dr. Barry Sears' claims may be questionable, it is undeniable that The Zone Diet encourages a healthy, balanced diet, which can contribute to weight loss and improved health and well-being.

This diet may be especially suitable for people who like to cook with fresh ingredients and lean proteins. However, it may be difficult to follow for those who consume a lot of refined carbohydrates and sugary products. Overall, The Zone diet offers an interesting and beneficial way to manage weight and promote health through hormonal balance and a healthy, balanced diet.