THE ZONE
What is the Zone?
The zone is a real metabolic state, where the body works at peak efficiency, which can be reached by anyone and maintained indefinitely on a lifelong basis. The zone gives freedom from hunger, greater energy, and physical performance, as well as improved productivity and mental focus.
How do I reach the zone?
The zone is reached from the food you eat. In this program, food is used to maintain a favorable hormonal balance among insulin, glucagon, and the super hormones eicosanoids.
The Zone Guidelines: The Basics
Here are some of the zone guidelines:
- Eat enough protein for your body’s needs, no more, no less. This amount is determined by your amount of lean body mass ( http://www.Eicotech.com/calculator/default.html ) and your activity level.
- At every meal eat protein and carbohydrates in the ratio of three parts protein to four parts carbohydrate.
- As much as possible, eat carbohydrates with a low glycemic index (This list includes most fruits and vegetables).
- Eat sufficient amounts of fat to control the rate of digestion of the meal and to control hunger. Usually, this is about 30% of the calories in the meal.
- Drink at least eight glasses of water or sugar-free decaffeinated beverages a day.
- As much as possible, eat protein with low levels of saturated fat such as fish, chicken, turkey, tofu, egg whites, and low-fat dairy products.
- As much as possible, eat monounsaturated fats in preference to saturated fats.
- Never go more than five hours without eating a zone-favorable meal or snack. Eat within one hour of waking and have a snack before workouts and before bedtime.
- No food is ever completely banned, but some must be eaten in moderation.