i tried the zone and i GAINED 10 pounds!!! doh! i wonder if the Atikin will be any different?
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What exactly is the Zone? I know I read a brief description once but I don't really remember...I'm not very up on various diet/excersize programs. I thought Slim Fast and Weight Watchers was the same thing until maybe 3 months ago :p
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From www.ivillage.com

Zone
by Lynn Grieger, R.D., C.D.E.

This higher protein, lower carbohydrate diet is supposed to decrease hunger, then weight.

Rating (out of 3)
hunger *

health *

ease *

expense *

the plan
An exact meal plan based upon each person's gender, activity level, and current percentage of body fat is designed to include 40 percent of its calories from carbohydrates, 30 from protein and 30 from fat. All meals and snacks follow this 40-30-30 distribution ratio, causing the body to work within its peak performance "zone" for maximum energy and weight loss.

upside
You will lose weight on this diet due to the very low calorie intake while you enjoy foods high in protein such as roast beef and steaks. Specific meal plans are available to guide you into the "zone."

downside
The diet is very low in carbohydrates, which can quickly sap your energy levels. It's also low in fiber and some vitamins and minerals due to the drastic reduction of foods such as pasta, potatoes, and bread products. Figuring out how to make each and every meal and snack follow the 40-30-30 ratio can be daunting.

duration
Indefinite

checklist
Restaurants: Yes
Alcohol: In moderation
Caffeine: No
Need to buy special foods: No
Family friendly: Only if your family is willing to give up many types of foods high in carbohydrates
Okay for vegetarians: No

the pros say
Most people have a tough time figuring out exactly what they should eat. My idea of a meal is certainly not half an apple, a quarter of a bagel and two ounces of cheddar cheese (my ideal breakfast according to the Zone)!

iVillagers say
"I've lost 19 pounds in three months, and that included Thanksgiving and Christmas! My goal was 13 pounds, but I'm still going. The added energy makes exercise easier, and I'm not so tired at night. I never had any real health issues, but just generally feel healthier!" --iVillager Linda

"I've been on the Zone for three years and counting. I've never felt better or looked better. I plan to continue Zoning for the rest of my life!" --iVillagerstacia_reed

"I was absolutely starving on the Zone. I calculated the ratios perfectly, and have realized that it just wasn't enough food for me. I tend to not eat a lot of breads and pastas anyway, but following the Zone by the book was too hard." --An iVillager
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actually, i'm a vegetarian and the ironic thing was the Zone allowed me to get the protein i needed and i felt absolutely WONDERFUL with lots of energy and mental clarity. i just gained weight! which i definately DO NOT need to do.
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