Isn't the Zone Diet a high-protein diet?

No, it's is a protein-adequate diet. This is a key element of the Zone Diet -- no one recommends eating excessive amounts of protein, nor should you consume any less than your body requires. For most females, this is equivalent to three ounces of protein, and for the typical male, this is equivalent to four ounces of protein at each meal. Both snacks should contain one ounce of protein. These amounts are hardly considered excessive. Remember, you must consume a minimum of three meals and two snacks per day.

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Can I continue taking my vitamins and minerals?

Vitamins and minerals are an excellent low-cost insurance policy to ensure adequate micronutrient (vitamins and minerals) intake. However, the Zone Diet -- which is primarily composed of low-fat protein, fruits and vegetables -- provides an excellent source of vitamins and minerals and requires much less supplementation. Nonetheless, I believe appropriate supplemental vitamin and mineral support can significantly enhance the Zone program.

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Can children use the Zone?

The diet is ideal for children because they need to be in the Zone even more than adults do. The average child before puberty will need about 15 grams of protein per meal with the appropriate amounts of fat and carbohydrate. After puberty, they should eat the same amounts as a typical adult. This is to ensure more than adequate protein for growth spurts. The one protein source that virtually every child will eat is string cheese. Although a little high in saturated fat, string cheese is a good way to introduce more protein in your child's diet. That leaves just the hard part for parents: getting your kids to eat fruits and vegetables instead of pasta and bread.