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Carbohydrate Diet in the Moderate Zone

Low-carbohydrate diets are today's biggest diet fad and it is almost unbelievable that anyone would even suggest the possibility that a low-carb diet is not the answer to rapid weight-loss. There is, however, substantial research to support the idea that a moderate carbohydrate diet may be more effective in facilitating weight-loss and long-term health benefits.

  1. Research

    • Since the adoption of the "food pyramid" by the USDA, the prevalence of obesity in Americans has increased substantially. Dr. Barry Sears has, however, developed a diet in which the proper ratio of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins and fats) aids in the proper hormonal responses in the body, especially in terms of insulin response. Insulin response by the body is instrumental in the regulation of the metabolic processes which determine weight-gain and weight-loss.

    Zone Diet

    • Proponents of the Zone Diet plan believe that following the diet is as easy as "1-2-3." This means that in order to maintain the proper macronutrient level you should eat 1 gram of of fat for every 2 grams of protein and 3 grams of carbohydrates in your diet. Following this strict ratio will help you to maintain proper insulin levels and ensure that your body is able to burn fat at a more effective rate. One suggestion to maintain this proper ratio is to simply divide your plate up into three portions making your protein portion comprise approximately one-third of your plate.

    Lifestyle

    • In order to maintain long-term health and promote proper weight-loss you should make sure you are getting at least 30 minutes of exercise per day and eating a well-balanced diet with the proper ratio of macronutrients. What types of food that you choose is just as important as the ratios themselves. Your diet should consist of high quality proteins such as fish, eggs, low-fat milk and chicken. Whenever possible your fat intake should be from high quality foods like olive oil, fish and nuts. These supply omega-3 fatty acids which are necessary for proper brain and cell function. Your carbohydrate intake should be from high quality sources such as whole grains, oats and nuts. These are low-glycemic carbs which means that they are slowly converted into energy in the body and cause a slower insulin response. Avoid high-glycemic carbohydrates such as white bread and potatoes, which cause the insulin to spike. It is this spike that throws off the body's metabolic processes and hinders weight-loss. Follow these simple guidelines and you will be well on your way to long-term weight-loss and health.

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