What is the "Zone Diet"?
The zone diet is an EXTREMELY popular diet which many celebrities currently use.

So, how does the zone diet work exactly? Well, it is based upon the theory that when you have carbohydrates, your insulin levels raise. When your insulin levels raise there is a better chance that by eating any more calories they will be stored as fat and you will gain weight. The zone diet uses the term "The Zone" to indicate not raising your blood sugar levels. To stay in the zone throughout the day the zone diet suggests a certain amount of low carbohydrate, high protein and high fat foods. That sounds great, doesn't it!? Well, you would be surprised how hard it is to cut out cereals, rice, potatoes, pasta, noodles, bagels, muffins, pastries, sweets, bread and other sugary foods. The creator, Barry Sears, suggests to have a 40:30:30 diet: 40 percent carbohydrates, 30 percent protein, and 30 percent fat.

How fast can you lose weight using the Zone Diet?
Many zone diet advocates suggest that you can lose 3 - 5 pounds in the first two weeks, followed by 1 - 1.5 pounds a week thereafter.

What should I be worried about and is it safe?

Pros:Most studies show surprisingly good results; such as the following:
- Quick weight loss
- Triglyceride levels are reduced
- HDL levels are increased
- Indices of fasting insulin-sensitivity are improved

Cons:
- Epileptic children showed an adverse effect on blood lipids
- Ketosis may pose a rick of cardiac arrhythmais
- Constipation and headache (because of the reduced fruit, bread and cereal intake)
- Muscle cramps and diarrheah

Some nutritional experts suggest that the weight loss may be due to a calorie deficit rather than from 'staying in the zone'.

Is the zone diet expensive?

The zone diet can be a bit expensive to maintain because pastas and breads are usually the cheapest foods to purchase.

Conclusion

While most of the research conducted on the zone diet has shown positive results in the first 6 months, more research needs to be conducted after that initial 6-month period. There appears to be a slowing down in the weight loss. Comparing the zone diet with a balanced diet of high protein, high fibre, lots of fruit and vegetables and exercise I believe the latter is the more healthy route. Your body was not meant to have a deficit of carbohydrates.