The zone diet works temporarily, because it is low in calories.

Basic concept

The Zone Diet promotes eating a balanced amount of protein, carbohydrate, and fat every time you eat. The idea is to keep your blood sugar in check, within a tight "zone."

How it works

Divide your plate into three equal sections. Fill one section with low-fat protein. Fill the remaining sections with vegetables and fruit. Add a "sprinkle" of fat. That’s it. Some people call it the 40-30-30 plan. You get 40% of your meal from carbohydrate, 30% from protein, and 30% from fats.

Other guidelines include:

• Eat within 1 hour of waking.
• Eat three meals and two snacks a day.
• Keep bread, pasta, grains, and starches to a minimum.
• Drink at least eight 8fl oz glasses of water a day.

On the menu

• Lean meat and protein
• Fruits and vegetables
• Olive oil
• Low-fat dairy

Off the menu

• Sugar
• Processed foods
• High-fat dairy