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Dear Heather: My friend just started "The Zone Diet". Is it something that I should consider if I'm trying to lose a few pounds or is it just a waste of time? Thank you - Lisa
Dear Lisa -
The Zone Diet consists of eating a breakdown of 40% carbohydrates, 30% protein, and 30% fats. Right off the bat the diet is a little low in carbohydrates for an athlete. I usually recommend a diet that consists of 50-55% carbohydrates, 25% protein and 20% fat. If your carbs are too low you may experience low energy or decreased endurace - which is never a good thing for an athlete. Another hang up I have with The Zone Diet is that it's hard to make sure EVERY meal and snack fits the 40/30/30 profile. Imagine having to calculate the exact ratio of carbs, protein, and fat for every single thing you put in your mouth. The creators of the zone make it easy for you by having "Zone Meals" delivered to your house - but unless you want to shell out $30-$40 a day I recommend losing weight the old-fashioned way. Cut 500 calories from your current intake, step up your workouts and you should expect to lose about 1lb/wk.
We look forward to hearing from you again!
Heather Campanile, RD / Sports Nutritionist
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