Hi, is there anyone here from the Sarasota, FL area? Would love for someone to talk to. I go to MediZone off Clark Rd. Looking for someone to share the experience with

I live in Englewood.....north end near Big Lots.

Hey Brenda!! I started with Jay Garcia's MediZone June 2nd, a little over 3 weeks ago. I have been going to the Clark Rd office as well, but I live in Palmetto. (I work out on Bee Ridge, so this proves convenient during working hours)

I'm 24 and started at 207.8 on my first visit. As of this Monday, I was down 16.7 lbs at 190.8. My goal wait is 150 lbs. I am very excited about this new transition in my life and know it is successful, as I know many people who are currently on the diet and who have finished the diet.

At this rate, I should be at my goal in about 3 months or so. So, how are you doing?

Hi Natalie and Brenda! I am from Palm Harbor but going to the Garcia office in Tampa. I just started this past Tuesday, the 1st of July and am excited to see this forum. I am going to be 46 at the end of this month and started out at 199.4. So after 4 full days of this diet I am down 6lbs.

I am taking the Omega3 and Polyphenol Plus. I also bought some over the counter Biotin for hair and nails as I have heard a few people have had some hair loss on this diet. I am feeling good so far, but want to know how you felt/feel with the appetite suppresants? Personally, I hate taking things like this. After the first day, I started taking the suppresants in the morning only.

Natalie, I am so happy you are having success on this! I would love to continue chatting as it can only help when undertaking something that is life changing! I look forward to hearing back!

Cynthia

Hey Cynthia! What is your goal weight? As of my weigh-in last Monday, I was at 188--down 19.5 lbs in four weeks! I have so much determination to get the weight off, that I haven't cheated or budged on the food ONE time the entire time I have been on this plan. I started in a TIGHT size 18, and am already down to a comfortable size 15! I am more size driven, then weight driven. I want to be between a size 8/10.

I too got the Omega Rx, Polyphenol Plus, Calcium Pulvate...but, I have slacked on all the pills--except the appetite suppresant. I take the appetite pill religously! The first week, I felt funny. Headaches, nauseas, lightheaded....but, I never cut back and stuck it out. I just took IBU Profen when it got bad. After the first week, all the side effects started to subside. As of now, I don't get any side effects--And, I never had the hair loss like the pamphlets warned.

On a grosser note, your poop will fluctuate with the stages. HAHA! I know, really gross..but, I wish someone would have warned me. In the beginning, it's constipation. Then, as soon as you get into "Ketosis" (the fat burning stage), it's pure diarrhea. Then, all of a sudden....your going to ask yourself when the last time you went? Back to the consitpation..... This subject, as awful as it is, was the only one that discouraged me. Let me know how you are all doing!

Hey Natalie,

Thanks for writing back! That is SO exciting that you have dropped almost 20 lbs in one month! Awesome!!! I am 5'5" tall and think I want to get down somewhere between 130 and 140 lbs. Being a lot older than you, I have to consider how it will look (especially in my face) as I go. For me it is more about how I look than what any size says at all. About 5 years ago I was at 139 lbs and felt I had about another 5-10 to go--but that was 5 years ago. I was a solid size 8 and some clothes were a size 6 at that time. Since then, though, I haven't been able to take off more than 15 lbs without going in the opposite direction.

I started Medizone because I felt I needed the structure and quicker results which would hopefully motivate me to keep it off and have an accountability factor as well. In the past, I have never been on anything structured like weight watchers or anything else--I have always just been able to do it myself. But in the last 5 years I have not been able to do what I know is necessary. I feel like this is something I have struggled with my entire life. For me, I know it is really not about losing the weight (which of course is a challenge) but more about what prevents me from keeping it off. I have NEVER been able to keep it off. When I was 139, I was so close to my goal but turned around and started all my old bad behaviors completing sabotaging (sp?) myself and what I verbally said I had wanted the whole time. So for me, this go round is a true self-exploration to get in touch with the emotional side of things--otherwise it will be just one more time (one more really expensive time) of taking the weight off only to put it all back on again. I mean seriously, I KNOW how to take it off, but unless I figure out the other stuff, what would make this time any different than any of the other times?

So that is key for me. I don't know if you have had weight issues only recently or for a long time, but I think it is critical to find out why when some people gain 2-3 lbs, they immediately are like, "oh, I have to cut back," (and they jump on it) but for me I have to gain 50 lbs and then start feeling that way. So, yes, a lot of self-exploration is in store as I attempt this--thanks for listening to the ramble...

On another note, I would REALLY encourage you to stick with the Omega3 and especially the high potency vitamin at the least. Right now this diet isn't giving us some of the essential things we need which is why the vitamin is on there to begin with. You may also find that your toilet habits really will even out if you consistently take these things. So far, I have found I am a little constipated (just a little) but yesterday was the first day of being in Ketosis so we will see. But let's just say, you eat less, you poop less, eh? Also, I am not taking the Biotin (for hair and nails) because I am afraid of losing my hair, I am taking it because I am hoping with everything else I am taking it will HELP my nails which have always been incredibly thin (lame.)

So last question for now, what kinds of exercise are you doing at this time? I plan to start next week after being on this for 1 week solid.

I think this forum is GREAT! Thanks for responding back!

Cynthia,
We may have the age difference, but I started to struggle with my weight nearing the end of high school. But, if you asked me if I thought I was overweight before that, I would have always said yes. I was never thin, but never obese, either. I was healthy. I love that expression :) Looking back, I know what I did to gain my weight. I started working a real job and started eating fast food 24/7. Two years ago, I hit my all time high--232lbs. I too am 5'5", so this was very plump for our size. I tried every diet and exercise regime you can think of: Nutrisystem, Weight Watchers, Atkins, South Beach. Then, I got a personal trainer and dropped my weight to 207. My trainer and me had a falling out, and the structure was gone. Out of all the diets, the trainer was the only thing that was working. I figure this worked because it was so structured. I was required to weigh and measure weekly. (This keeps most anyone to stick it out) I was able to maintain my weight, give or take a few lbs, over the next year. So, I'm not to concerned with keeping it off. It's just getting it off...and how stretched my body will be when I am done. I am hoping it will go back to semi-normal, but I think it went to far...I have stretch marks that I know won't go away. I will deal with that issue after I am done.

I finally hit my breaking point. I can't tell you exactly what it was, but maybe a combination. I started getting into a real drepression funk. I didn't want to do any of the things I used to have doing. I started to analyze my situation and realize it had to be my weight. It's the only thing that is different about me.

Back to the poop real quick...I only stopped taking the other pills last week. This Monday will be my 5th week, so the poop isn't really affected by the pills. Just wait.....if you just hit ketosis....you will see what I mean. It's god awful! But, it gets better. Just DON'T plan any boating acitivities this week (they lack restrooms). :~)

I actually haven't started exercising yet. When I first started with Dr. Sexton, I had an injured foot. My doctor just released me July 1st. I haven't even thought about the exercise. My job is extremely demanding at the moment, which is unusual for this market, so I need to focus on my job too. I process mortgages, so I have to go with the flow.

To change the subject again: The 19.5 lbs so far, every comment from anyone who knows me is, "Oh my god, YOUR FACE....how much weight have you lost". Evidently, my face is losing first...weird! Not the location of preference for me, but it will do.

Some words of encouragement: A person I know is getting ready to start the transition phase. He has lost over 50lbs in 10 weeks! His wife lost 35lbs in 10 weeks. Very motivational!

Last change in topic before I signout: I notice that I get very irritable/frustrated when people very close to me don't consider what I can eat. Maybe I am a bit selfish, I am an only child.... But, people keep "pushing" and "asking" for me to eat something and it seems like they take offense when I say I can't eat that. I just try to focus on the end result. Somehow it's working, because I haven't given in yet.

I am really happy with forum as well.... I kept "googling" medizone, trying to find others to share the experience with.... So, what was your "breaking point"? What made you finally make the commitment? This isn't the cheapest diet by far, so what made you pick this?

Hey there,

Well, I guess my "breaking point" is that I am going to be 46 on the 31st of this month. I have never been married, don't have any kids and feel like I have been using this weight as an excuse NOT to meet anyone. I don't feel attractive and I know that most of it is probably more emotional, but physically, I need to get it together even if only for health reasons. It's interesting that you talked about always feeling fat. My brother sent me a photo of me the other day from when I was about 12-14 years old. I remember thinking that I was a heavy girl, even back then. When I opened up the pic online, the young girl I saw smiling back at me was perfectly normal weight-not fat in any way. That made me realize that it is definitely more psychological for me. So here I am--trying to get it together and find out what my deal is so that I don't repeat the same mistakes I have made so many times in the past.

So on to other things...I will tell you that you probably don't have to worry too much about saggy skin if you get back in the gym!!! Seriously, Natalie, the weight training and the cardio and the stretching (especially the stretching) is very key. You also have one good thing on your side and that is age--yes, you are a young person and the skin is definitely more elastic at your age which is a good thing. I brought in a pair of 3lb weights to my office and have started doing some upper body stuff over the last part of my lunch--I am a recruiter (new job within the last 10 weeks for a new company) and the work load as with you is unbelievable-always eating at my desk and not paying attention. I am trying to focus on myself-the work will ALWAYS be there-it will NEVER all get done and to be honest, I am more important than anything at work...but I still understand the pressure to produce.

Regarding your face losing the weight first...It's probably not really happening that way if you really think about it. The face doesn't carry as much fat as other parts of our bodies do, so when we start to hit the 20lb mark (as you have) people really start to notice it. I remember when I was at 139 and a lot of people starting telling me that I shouldn't lose any more weight because my face looked thin. The truth is that I have a VERY small face and even now when I am 60-70 lbs overweight it doesn't look "fat" to anyone. What I always try to keep in mind when people say these kinds of things (especially as you get closer to your goal) is this: what if the people I know currently had never met me before and I just walked in their door one day and met them for the first time? Would they think to themselves "wow, that lady's face looks really gaunt." No, they probably wouldn't--they would probably think I just looked trim and normal. Which leads me to the other thing you talked about...

People who may or may not realize that they are sabotaging you out of "kindness." People who keep pestering you to eat what they eat or more than you want to eat aren't really friends. I have found the best way to deal with them is to simply look them in the eye or put your arm around them if you are really close and nicely tell them that "the new you" doesn't eat that and how much you really appreciate them understanding because you are counting on their support. Believe me, real friends will "get" it and modify their future behavior and others don't give a crap anyway really, so what do you care? It's interesting because I have had the opposite problem in the past. Out of concern or support of my new lifestyle, they won't even politely offer me certain things as they are afraid I will be tempted. I actually had to tell some friends that I am an adult and I know how to say yes and no and would rather feel included by the offer of "x" and decline it then to be left out of it all together--does that make sense? I think people sometimes don't know how to react--they have come to know you in a certain way under certain situations--especially those that revolve around food--and that can be challenging.

Ok, so on that note, I am headed off of here for the night. Very nice chatting with you--it's weird, but this is only the end of day 5 and yet I feel like this has been the longest week....not sure if that is good or bad.....

Have a great night!

Cynthia

Hey again :)
Here's a piece of advice: Work on one thing at a time. Right now is the physical appearance, then you can battle the emotional situation. I think a good portion of people battling weight loss, are also battling some type of emotional issues within themselves. I know I went to my doctor before I started this diet for a simple cold......until, out of know where, I broke down into a sobfest. That's when I realized I was obviously depressed. I am hoping losing the weight will bring my spirits up, but I know that I will still have appearance issues with myslef.
I too used to think I was heavy....Until I saw a picture of myself about 10 years ago at about 14-16 yrs old. I was thin. Size 7/8 easy. But, I thought I was still heavy. This will be our next battle to overcome in life.

I don't know your religion, but either way...I FIRMLY believe that EVERYTHING happens for a reason. Everything. Even the bad stuff..... And when your at your lowest point, it can only get better. I also believe that if you put your life on a graph, you would see that it goes upward, with minor slopes down and up. It's life. That's why we are all here--to help each other.

I weigh in tomorrow. I write back then! What day do you weigh in?

Hey again. I weighed in on Monday at 183.8 lbs. I have lost 23.7lbs in 5 weeks. At this rate, I should be at goal by mid-September! How are you doing on week 2?

Hi Cynthia and Natalie,

I've been reading your posts and wondering what exactly your program is. Can you tell us more? I'm curious because I've been eating in the Zone very successfully for over 13 years and many of the things you've mentioned mention like appetite suppressants, Ketosis, fat burning stage, transitional phase, alternating bouts of dharrhea and constipation, losing 50 pounds in 2 1/2 mos, not getting the nutrients you need, and hair loss are not a part of the Zone I know.

Thanks!

Hi everyone and hello Sue! Natalie, I weighed in after week one and am down 8.2 lbs-pretty good I would say being the age I am. I feel good now in week two but got my period early (definitely related to the diet I am sure.)

Sue, to answer your question, Natalie and I are on Dr. Jay Garcia's "Medi-Zone" diet. It is a plan for quicker weight loss which then transitions to eating for life in the Zone. He has partnered with Dr. Sears on this. It is very structured but supervised the whole way. Because of his program I went out on this website and found this forum (and along the way saw many of your postings---what an inspiration! You really have a lot of knowledge and are so positive about your experiences.) I hope this answers your question. I would love to chat further about this or in general as I feel the support factor is a critical component of this.

For some reason, though I have not been getting things in my email saying people have responded to the posting even though I have checked the box saying I want to know--any ideas?

Miss Natalie--I am very happy you are having so much success!! Stay in touch here!!

Cyn

Cynthia,

Thanks so much for the info. I was wondering what you were talking about! :)

The email notification feature has never worked here.

Keep us updated!

Wow--Good job for week one! I lost like 8.2 the first week~but, I started my period the next week and only lost 1.8 that week...that was the hardest part. I should be getting close for month two period--see how it affects me this time with the bloating on the scale.

I can't believe The Sue posted here! I think I have read ALL your posts! Your like the mentor for the forum!

I weigh in again on Monday... I'm glad I picked Monday, it keeps me on track over the weekends.

I thought the email notification was just a glitch on my computer...glad to see it's not just me!

Good luck this week Cynthia!

[quote]Posted By Natalie on 07/11/2008 6:22 PM



I can't believe The Sue posted here! I think I have read ALL your posts! Your like the mentor for the forum!

[/quote]

LOL! Thanks! :)

Hey again! I weighed in yesterday and lost 2.2lbs this week. I'm at a total loss of 25.9lbs. I think I am going to join a local gym soon. I am starting to notice some areas that need some toning, obviously! But, it's starting to gross me out and I want to try and tone as much as possible.
Cynthia, Have you started working out yet? What are you doing? Any ups or downs this week?

However, on a good note..I went to the Ellenton Prime Outlet Mall over the weekend...and dropped from an TIGHT 18 to a comfy, almost loose 14! That was HUGE to me....a lot more motivating than the number on the scale.

Hey I am considereing medizone...ahve read all yur posts...just can you please give me an idea of how much all this costs

thanks

Hey Cynthia! Week 7 weigh-in: lost 4 lbs this week totaling 29.9 for week 7. How are you doing? Any new obstacles?

Stacey,
Depending on where you live, I know Garcia's MediZone is pretty cut and dry. First visit is the highest price because of the testing and supplies. Without any of the extra's, first visit is $330 and $75 weekly, thereafter. Once you hit your goal weight, you will transition into the Zone Diet. The visits are still $75, but become monthly. Once transition is completed (4-6 weeks), they release you and your in the maintenance phase with no visits.

They do offer extra shots of B12 or B6 (it's only one shot--just more stuff)--these extra's can add $50 each visit. I just hit week 7 today. I had elected to get the B6 shot every week, since my energy runs low due to my anemia, but today I elected to do just the standard shot. I found that, number one, the shot was starting to hurt and, number two, it was starting to add up.

I do know that their are other facilities doing the same program. Premier Weight Loss on Manatee Ave in Bradenton has the same program at about half the price. Also, St. Pete has a doctor doing the diet much cheaper than Garcia. It's all about location. I haven't found one facility that doesn't offer free consultations. Go make some appointments and see which one is best for you.

Thanks so much for the price details its greatly appreciated I think I will be visiting them soon. No serious cons that I need to know about?

Enjoy and congrats on all the weight loss
Great job

Hey Natalie and sorry for the lapse in writing. I got REALLY sick last week with a bout of sinusitus and have been coughing my brain out the whole time. I had to get on an antibiotic and decided to get off the other pills (just for the week) to give my stomach a rest. Just starting to feel better today but still coughing like crazy.

First of all, congratulations on doing soooo well!! That is tremendnous!!! Truly inspiring!!! I weighed in late today and am now down 13.2 lbs in 3 weeks. I think it probably would have been more, but I have not been following taking the appetite suppressant as religiously as they have said I should. I am sure the one I am on with the metabolism booster would have moved things along more quickly, but I feel comfortable with the rate I am losing. The last time I lost 13 lbs in 3 weeks without ANY exercise was like 20 years ago for me. I had planned to start a routine last week, but then got sick and didn't feel up to it. I will start simply walking and getting some cardio in two or three times a week for 30 minutes and then take it from there. I want to work it up slowly as some of the weight loss starts to taper, so I can increase as I need to "change things up" and rev up the metabolism. I think the best part for me so far is that I am still very much motivated and feel committed to seeing my goal.

Did you start exercising as you had mentioned? If so, how's it going? I am sure it had to feel awesome going in and purchasing the smaller clothes---good deal!! I know I have made a commitment NOT to purchase anything (other than a couple of pairs of black pants) until I get to my goal. Once there, the first thing I am going to buy is a DRESS!! I have not worn a dress to work in over 5 years--maybe more.. The way I look at it, there are like 7 people sharing my closet (that is how many sizes are in there) and all of them have my same face!! I have plenty to wear as I go down and then when I have reached the actual goal, I will invest in some really great items!! I love clothes and all that goes with it, so that will be awesome when it happens.

So it sounds like you are feeling great and inspired-I am VERY happy to hear it-write back when you can!!

Cyn

Wow--I am never on the computer this often, but now I have all this energy!

Stacey--The only Con: You better be ready to be a loser, because the weight MELTS off! I think it's simple and easy, but the majority of poeple "outside-the-box" think it's hard and strict. My cousin is getting ready to start soon....My words of advice to her: It's easy! No, you can't eat everything, but, do you really, REALLY want that cookie? I mean, your only hurting yourself, plus, the motivation is the mandatory weekly weigh-ins. Anyone who get's on that scale and hears, "you lost...", is going to be motivated for the upcoming week.

Cynthia,
You sound like me! I used to get sinusitis sooo bad, I had to have surgery! I COMPLETLEY understand your pain! I would definitley stop the pills if I was sick and taking antiobiotics! 13 lbs is awesome for 3 wks! We seem pretty close in a week by week comparison.
The bad news, no, I still haven't started exercising! I know, I know...I don't need a lecture! But, I have recently noticed an EXTREME spike in my energy levels. I can't stop! Sunday, I rearranged the entire house! Monday, I went grocery shopping and prepared 4 days worth of meals--completely cooked. Plus, did laundry and dishes! If you knew me before, I came home at 5 and fell on the couch in complete exhaustion! So, this is EXTREME!
I am planning on starting to swim on Mondays, bike Wednesdays and walk on like Thursday/Friday. This should be enough variety to keep my moving--AND spike the scale with more losses! Plus, I have started to inquire about a few gyms locally to try and tone up as much as possible.

Have a great week guys! Good luck!

Hey Natalie,

Well today is my birthday-46 y/o! I feel great that I have embarked on this journey a month ago and am now seeing the results. I weighed in on Tuesday and the count is 16.1 lbs. Not bad for 4 weeks and with no exercise. I went to the gym last Saturday and did about a half hour of basic walking and some eliptical. The next day I had hip pain and finally realize there is something wrong (and has been for a while) and so tomorrow I go to the doctor for some x-rays to see what's up. I am really motivated to exercise and obviously there is an inflamation there which is causing the pain. Time will tell, but overall, I just want to get back into something consistent which will help take the weight off and tone up at the same time.

How's it going for you? Have you started the exercise plan you talked about? I am sure you feel so good about the results you are seeing-I know how I feel-I am really starting to see it in my clothes-down one size already in the pants which is great. Starting to get comments from people like-"are you losing weight?" and the like. So all in all it is VERY encouraging.

Connect when you can-hope all is well!

Cynthia

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Hope it was a great day! Congrat's on the 16 lbs--that's awesome! I'm at 31.1 lbs weighing in at 176, so I am very pleased with this program and it's so worth it!

Some good news...I went last weekend and toured the new gym in town. Wednesday I went on a free day pass and did 1 mile on the eliptical and about 10 minutes on the treadmill....then.....I went into a dance class!! I HATE dancing, but I wanted to get a feel for the whole gym in the one free day. The class was an HOUR and, literally, the HARDEST thing I have ever done! It was blood sweating, non-stop, moving! I felt so GOOD! I am going to be going this weekend or next week to actually sign-up.

And, I don't think I will ever get tired of hearing, "Are you losing weight?". I LOVE TO HEAR THAT! SOOOOO motivational!

Have a good week!

I also live in Englewood. The east side by Gulfstream and Sunnybrook...

I am going to the clark road location and have been since February. The big losses tapered off to 2 lbs a week and now it is maybe 1 lb a week or 1.5 per week. But I am below my goal that I set for the program. I was a size 16 and now I wear a 3. I only thought I would see a size 9 but I am much more fit than I have ever been.
So now I am on the zone living and loving it. Plus I am lifting pretty heavy weights now so I am sure my weight will go up since I am building muscle now. In addition I started running in order to tightenup up the excess skin/flab and it is working.

I read the information regarding cross fit and would love to get started with that. Very strenuous workout. Wonder if I can do it on my own though. I am a YMCA member and I frequent it everyday, but they do not have cross fit.

This is a much easier way to live, in the zone, than the way I was living in the beginning of the year.

No More cravings for the daily Dairy Queen large cone!

Best of everything
Tweeting Sue

Hello again! Hope everyone weathered Fay alright! We haven't even had a drop of rain yet, and, we got teased thinking we'd have a day off work that never happened!

I weighed in Monday to a shocking 3.6lb lost this week. The weight loss has slowed a bit, like Sue said above, so it was a surprise to hear 3.6 for one week. So, it's been 11 weeks and I have lost 39.9 lbs. I am so pleased with the progress.

Now, for the weird advice--Is there such a thing as a shopping therapists, because I am out of control!! Every weekend and spare moment I can find, I am trying on new cloths. All clearance/sale items, but I can't stop! I started at a snug size 18 and bought my first SIZE 10!! Most items I am a comfortable size 11/12.... I'm so close to my goal, I can see the new wardrobe and negative balance in my savings! My goal is a size 8 -- which should be 150lbs.

Have a good week everyone!

Hi All,

I am actually doing MediZone in Orlando with Dr Bragg. I had my first weigh in on Monday and although my home scale (yes i weighed at home) said I was down about 6.5 it said 4.8 at the dr. Still, with the understanding that i've always been a slow loser... I am okay with that- Just hope my weekly is around 2 lbs or so. I started at 213, so now I am 208. I would like to get to 130/120. I have a friend who lose 90 lbs in 10 months, and a friend who lost 25 in about 2. My mom is a weight watchers leader, I come from an athletic family... I know all about health but I've never been able to get my weight off. After moving to Chicago for two years, and coming back I realized how heavy I really am and I look the leap.

I am having a bit of trouble eating all the food, I feel like I'm never hungry. Also, yesterday and today I just feel "heavy" I got on the scale and it was up a bit... weird. water weight, that time of the month, anything... i know. just saying.

I am starting back in the gym tomorrow, so anyone working out with a good routine suggestion?

I APPRECIATE ANY COMMENTS :)

I am just learning aabout the medizone diet. IS there any place in Port charlotte area? I am anxious to start after reading everything hear.
Thanks in advance.

Hi Teresina...
The closet medizone is Sarasota off of clark road...here is the web site
http://www.garciaweightloss.com/

Byrdie Sue

Hi all! So many new comments! Lori, I too have had major issues consuming the daily amount of food. I had to set reminders on my work email just to remind me to eat! Kind of weird, but the doctor said my lightheadness, was because I basically wasn't eating enough. I make sure to eat breakfast every morning, if possible. I am not really a big breakfast person, but the doctor told me I needed to start. Once I get past the breakfast, I eat VERY small amounts for lunch and a semi-small dinner.

You just have to keep your metabolism moving and system digesting. DON'T NOT EAT~ I actually gained weight when I ate less, and think since I started increasing my food intake 2 weeks ago, that's why I had the drastic weight drop this week.

No suggestions on the gym--I'm a bad influence in that department. This last weigh-in was 11 weeks, and I have only worked out about 4-5 times, total!

Good luck and don't get discouraged!!!! Just remember it will all pay off!!

I'm in the Brandon area. Would any of you all in the Sarasota/Tampa area be interested in doing a zone cooking club? We could take turns hosting a zone-friendly meal. Just a thought!

OH, that sounds like fun! I wish I lived down there, I would definitely join!

Hello everyone --- I'm in the Tampa area -- been doing the Zone on and off for years. I would like to find a nutritionist who knows the Zone well. I want to tweek my food plan to improve it as needed. The best thing about the Zone is the stable blood sugars and no cravings. Like Dr Sears says -- "food is a drug". In keeping with that I don't want to go to one of these "diet docs" if they are so pro appetite suppressants. Whatever you call them it's still speed. (once a nurse always a nurse) While I'd like to wake up a size 10 .... So what do you think? Anyone know where I can find a Zone coach/nutritionist? Love the idea of a Zone club. Sharing meals -tricks- shopping finds - recipes etc is a great way to stay zoned. Congrats on your giving away the weight --- Lin in LOL

Welcome Linda! I've been doing the Zone for a lot of years, too.

I'm not sure where to find a Zone nutritionist, but in the meantime, there are lots of knowledgeable people here who can help you.

And while you're at it, switch that dream to waking up and being a size 6 or 8! That is more like where you'll be once you're at ideal body fat%. :)

Thanks Sue --and C cat- I've been on the site a lot -- got some new tricks -- looking up recipes. I'm a 4 block -- one of my breakfast favorites= steel cut oatmeal 1/4 c (C=26 P=4 F=2) Fat free cottage cheese (C=5 P15 F=0) Soymilk 1/2 c(C=3.5 P=3.5 F=2) Tot=C=34.5 P= 22.5 and F=4. Am I accurate? iI know soy can vary with the brand so I'm careful. Lunch = 2c green greens salad with 6oz talapia and 1cup blueberries. Tonite= Great Zone soup with 4oz turkey 1/5c brn rice. Am snack= 1 cheese stick (C=0 P=8 F=2.5)and 1 oz turkey (C=0 p=5.5 F=0.5) an apple. pm snack 8oz soy milk and 1c strawberries. I see from reviewing that things have changed -- pineapple and citrus are not as geat (no surpise) --- Which is his latest book o is it best to stay online in the site fo the most updated. Thank you Thank you

Hi Linda!

Ok, let's see, your breakfast. You added accurately, but it's not a Zone balanced 4 block meal. It's missing protein and fat. One completely balance Zone block contains 7 g P, 9 g insulin stimulating C (insulin stimulating C = total C minus total fiber) and 3 g fat. A balance 4 block meal contains 28 g P, 36 g C and 12 g F. Dr Sears advises not to count the protein in plant foods with the exception of soy because some of it is bound in insoluble fiber and is never absorbed by the human digestive tract (comes out as it went in!). Gluten "meat" (aka seitan) would be another exception. Therefore you wouldn't count the P in the oats. That puts your P amount at 19 g, or almost 3 blocks. The C is almost 4 blocks, though I don't know if you subtracted the fiber. If not, then the C is a little low. Typically you wouldn't count the C in the cottage cheese, but I notice you are counting every grams of everything. That's fine, as long as you remember to subtract the fiber (and also not count the P in plant foods). The fat amount is far too low. Dr. Sears described the fat in the meal as a "control rod". It helps slow down the rate of entry of the C into your blood stream, ultimately making it possible to maintain the lower insulin levels of the Zone. Without the minimum necessary fat you won't be able to maintain your insulin in the Zone range. You need at least 8 more fat grams in the meal.

On to lunch. It's short on carb and is also missing fat.

"Am snack", that's approximately a 3P, 4C snack. Assuming it's the same brand of soymilk as in your breakfast, you're missing a block or two of fat. If you meant that to be a PM snack, it contains too many blocks for a bedtime snack.

Pineapple and melons are now unfavorable carb. Citrus is favorable, though some people find they need to treat citrus as unfavorable in order to stay in the Zone.

The most recently released book, an excellent resource, is "The Anti-Inflammation Zone". I highly recommend it!

Keep us updated!

Thank you -- got his book and am getting a lot out of it ---- Math= I am a 13 block day --- 3block meals with 2 snacks of 2 blocks -(one is at bedtime) Is this right so far? Subtract fiber. P in plants =don't count. I'm lookin forward to an increasingly more stable blood sugar. Linda

You're welcome Linda!

You've got it right. Yes to all those qns you just asked. Give it a a few days for your body to acclimate to the changes, and by the end of 1 week you should be noticing some differences. You can split the snacks up into 4 1 block snacks too, if you prefer. I eat 13 blocks a day and eat 4 1 block snacks, using 2 of them to support my workouts.

So I started @ Medizone on Clark two days ago. My body definitely let me know it was time for fruits and veggies today, almost immediately after I peed on the stick and it turned colors. I started sweating all over (from my hips even, so weird!) and then I got short of breath, felt like I had a migraine and very sick to my stomach. I realize that I'm only allowed 2 fruits right now, but I downed four apples to right whatever had gone so terribly wrong with my blood sugar. I am hypoglycemic, which I told the doctor, but nobody told me this could happen.
I have to say, I guess I didn't do my research well enough because this diet (at least at first) is so much like Atkins which I believe is an unhealthy diet. Of course, it doesn't allow for the fatty foods like Atkins does, but I guess I am trying to wrap my mind around the lack of carbs. I don't love protein to begin with, so after two days of lean sliced deli meat I have sworn it off for good. Just the smell of it now makes me gag.
Your posts are so helpful, because even though I paid the crazy amount of money and got some info from the office, I feel like I am a little too out on my own. Then again, I didn't do Weight Watchers because I didn't want the big pow-wow every week over calories.
Any advice through this beginning stage? Its SOOOOO rough. Far more than I thought it'd be. But I am sticking to it, if for nothing else than the expensive first visit!

Hi, I also go to Medizone off Clark - I started about a two month ago, but have been out of town for the past three weeks.

So I only lost 4 in my first week (and -.2% body fat which I was really excited about.) I feel like the only person in the world to lose that few in the first week. I can say that my body has been acting very differently. As I said, on the second day I got a big low-sugar spell (I am hypoglycemic) then everything was ok. But on the fifth day, I woke up with really bad kidney pains and soooo lethargic, so I drink a ton of water and had a few grape nuts (gasp) but could that really be the big culprit? . I swear I am not a complainer, I am just asking for anyone who has any similar circumstances. Its crazy to go from eating whatever I wanted to eating SOOOOO well and not having larger results. The Dr. also said I need to eat more, because my food intake was really low and maybe that was why I was so lethargic.
Thanks for any and all advice.

Hey Molly! I have been doing Medizone since June 2nd. It's been about 3.5 months. I started at 207.5 and currently weigh 159. My goal is 150. It is and it isn't easy. I am very torn.

The beginning is MOST definetly the hardest, without a doubt. I didn't have any side-effects until month two. I was lightheaded, to the point it started concerning me. I told the doctor right away and to my surprise, it was because I wasn't eating ENOUGH! Evidently, I wasn't eating the full 10 servings of protien and 4 servings of fruit/vegetables. I increased my servings and was fine the first day.

I am anemic and wasn't effected at all -- I'm actually not testing anemic anymore and I have been anemic since I was in Elementary School and I'm 24 now.

Tips:
Make sure you drink the entire amount of water--all 128 ounces--this will most likely cure your side-effects.
Eat smaller meals more often, to keep your stomach digesting and you full. This should help too.

It's tough, but once you get past the first few weeks....it's smooth sailing. Each weigh-in motivates you for the next week! I only lost 6 or 8 lbs the first week...but, my first month was steady numbers close to this range. It then tapers off to about 1-3 lbs a week, which I am perfectly fine with... it's really not bad. I've averaging about 3.2 lbs a week.
I hope this helps--and BTW, just tell the girls you want to talk to Dr. Sexton about your symptoms, to see if you can change anything around...

Hi Medizoners!

I'm curious about something. Are you monitoring LBM and body fat % as you lose weight? For those who are monitoring these stats, are you losing only stored fat with Medizone or is your LBM decreasing? Thanks!

Natalie,
First of all, THANK YOU FOR YOUR REPLY. It really helped. I cannot believe your weight loss. My weight is starting at about the same and we have a similar goal and similar age. So you are extremely helpful. AND, I was alarmed by how hard the first week was because nobody really told me, which is probably a good thing. No reason to start out negative, you know? And its funny you said that about the small meals after I went to the doctor and he suggested to eat more, I started grazing, like you say with a lot more small meals throughout the day and since my last post I have felt a million gillion times better. I guess I was just too overzealous the first week and since I normally ate carbs and wasn't much of a fan of protein and veggies, it wasn't all that hard to NOT eat. And you are also right about it getting easier. Its bizarre how, after the first week of what felt like a million years longing for carbs, my body is learning to use the food I give it to feel full like it did when I was eating carbs. It really makes me wonder HOW people do the zone without Dr. Garcia's plan (the shots and pills make the switch much easier because I am not great with self control)
The doctor upped my appetite suppressants to 2 before each meal instead of 1 because I was hungrier than I wanted to be. But I think the 2 pills had an adverse affect today. I forgot to eat breakfast an hour after I took them and although I have eaten, I still feel hungry and now jittery. Its nothing worriesome, just weird. Its just so good to share experiences!
Any recipes that you recommend?

hey again. I am doing Medi-zone also in Orlando--posted a little while back. I've been on the program for 5 weeks and I've lost 20.5 lbs. I'm averaging 4 lbs a week then, which is great!!! I've been sticking to it like 100% and really proud of myself. My only slipup came on my moms birthday- but aside from that- I've been doing great. I'm struggling to get back into the gym, but I really want to start ASAP. Also, I have a really hard time eating all of my portions. Especially with teaching, I can't take breaks throughout the day, I'll go all day and realize, great I need to eat more!!

But anyway, in a rush but wanted to post my update.

would love to read more. :)

Sue--they do monitor our Body Fat percentage. My first weigh-in, June 2nd, BF was 44.5%. As of Sept 15th, BF was 34.5%. So 10% total BF lost. Every quarter at work, we have a nurse come in a do "health-exam", so I will be able to see more hard "hard-evidence", as I call it... I will let you know soon, as my appt is October! I also wanted to explain my idea of this diet, as you aren't getting the whole picture in these blogs. Basically, this diet uses the assistance of appetite suppresants to TEACH portion control (I know this is a controversy between lots of people, but some people need this to relearn the basics), and focuses of shopping the perimeter of the grocery store. The inside is 99% sugar, packaged, processed crap. The shots are vitamins and are optional---personally, I had these done prior to the diet to help with the fatigue from my anemia. So, the diet helps teach people how to eat and what to eat, so they don't fail when the accomplish the battle.

Lori--Your doing great!! I haven't slipped at all since I started--but, I gladly will blame my monthly hormones, for the healthy low sugar/fat chocolate bars I have eaten occasionally... I asked the doctor and he said they are okay, if I MUST--But, sometimes, mother nature makes me crave certain things that I can't control! I normally only need a lick or bite to kill the craving, and since it only occurs once a month, it doesn't effect my self-control or progress--thank god!

Molly--How old are you? I started at the 2 pills before meals, not 1--but, I have stopped taking my morning pill as I don't have appetite issues that early in the morning. My biggest/hardest obstacle was insomnia. I never had problems sleeping, until I started week 2....but, I moved the time up on my last pill and have been fine ever since. I weigh-in Monday, and it should be good, as I just got off my period!!! That's always a good weigh-in! Good luck this week! Oh--and now that you hit week 2, you might want to go read my posts from the beginning--your getting ready to experience some "fun" (not) bodily experiences! LOL!

I am having a heck of a time downing protein. Even soy substitutes. Are there protein shakes that I can substitute for my protein intake? I don't want to buy anything until I know that it is Zone approved. I know the Zone sells a protein shake and I am wondering if that is a fair substitute.
And Natalie, I have the monthly visitor right now and I weighed at home this morning and I haven't lost anything in a week. I don't weigh in til Tuesday, when the monthly visitor is gone, so will the weight go down then? I am so nervous!
Thanks!

Congrats on your progress Natalie!

Thanks for the additional info. Do they also monitor your LBM? I've been wondering what impact if any there is to one's LBM on Medizone.

Keep up the good work!

Sorry--I've been soo busy at work with this "Bail-Out" on one day, off the other....I work at a bank, so of course our business is affected.

Molly--how was the weigh...i normally go down after my period, and up before my period. I just dread weighs any one of those three weeks.

Sue, they don't measure LBM, but my job does. My appointment is October 21..so, I will let you know.

Hello, are you the gal from Palm Harbor? I live there and just started with Dr Lara. I'm on week 3 with the diet, B12 shots, appetite supressants and the calcium gluconate. My "bad" time is at night, when I get home late from work and CRAVE junk food! I'm not really that hungry, I know it's more of an emotional/comfort thing. Any tips? I'm soon to be 47 years old and never had a weight problem until the last few years and as such, I never learned how to eat well/diet or exercise.

Hello,
While this may not be popular...I honestly believe that the MediZone is a total scam. Save your money and health and invest in a personal trainer and follow the real Zone diet. Have you talked to long term users of this program in the area? There are a ton of them that get the fast loss only to get the fast gain. I also fell into this trap. Fortunately, I only lasted three weeks and didn't end up in a hospital. The side effects are just awful from the pills. The initial weight loss diet is not healthy and not the Zone. I tried the diet and fortunately all I lost was a bunch of money. Eating less than 10 oz of protein/day, taking pills and dropping less than 3 pounds in a month they kept saying next week will be better. They also said I was starving myself...go figure. Anyhow, the real Zone and some training will get you results, save your health and be less expensive.

Natalie, the weigh in was great! Actually lost more after the P than any other week since I have been on the diet. I was pretty psyched. Do you have any recipes you recommend? As I said in another post, the protein has been my hardest part. I know you work full time, as do I, so I would love to know how you set up your meals etc. during your hectic schedule.

Cherilyn, I can understand where you are coming from, and when I started I had a lot of concerns. But my body and the diet have hit a stride and I feel so lucky to have found Medizone. I don't remember a time in my life that I have felt this healthy. Knowing myself, I would have never done the Zone diet successfully without MediZone. I would have picked up a Dr. Sears book, like any other diet book, and tried it for a day or two and then failed when it got a little tough. But with the regular visits to the office, the vitamin regimen, and the appetite suppressants, I have yet to hit a rough patch that was fail-worthy. For me, this is some of the best money I have ever spent. It sounds like you have been successful on your version of the zone, so I whole-heartedly congratulate you. I am just curious, what is different about what you eat on the zone to what you ate when you were doing Medizone? I ask because honestly, I don't do any counting or measuring on this diet. I know I am suppose to but my excuses are #1, I don't want to ;) and #2 I never make the time. When I eat, my mantra is water, veggies, protein, fruit, in that order. If I can hit up all four, I am a happy camper. I guess its not exactly as regimented as any diet would like me to be, but its working, and that is a first for me.

Sue, what is LBM?

Hi Molly!

LBM stands for Lean Body Mass (everything in your body that is not body fat). As you lose weight you want to see the body fat % (pounds of fat) go down and the pounds of LBM either stay the same or increase. A decrease in LBM means you've lost some muscle mass, which means you are not eating enough protein.

It's important to measure muscle mass (LBM) for the Zone, because the amount of food you require daily is based on the amount of protein you need to maintain your current LBM at your current activity (exercise) level.

Thanks Sue!

My pleasure Molly!

An easy way to track your LBM and body fat % is with the Zone Block & Body Fat Calculator (link at right).

[quote]Posted By Molly on 09/26/2008 8:15 PM

I am having a heck of a time downing protein. Even soy substitutes. Are there protein shakes that I can substitute for my protein intake? I don't want to buy anything until I know that it is Zone approved. I know the Zone sells a protein shake and I am wondering if that is a fair substitute.[quote]

Molly,

Dr. Sears Zone Protein Powder is an excellent sounce od protein. It's great in smoothies, with oatmeal, etc.

Any low fat protein is fine (see the Zone Food Blocks in Quick Start Guide; link at right). There's no special food required. If you're looking for easy and convenient products try Dr. Sears Zone bars, or shakes, or cereal. They're all Zone balanced products and can be eaten as meals or snacks.

Hey again! Cherilyn, this diet is not for everyone, as evidenced by you and many others, but it is working very well for me and the people I know who have been off the diet for some time. Out of 4 people, some off over a year and some less, not one has gained any weight back--except one lady, who admits, it's her own fault for caving back into old-habits. I am not concerned with this, as I am eating healthy and the only controversal issue with this diet is the appetite suppresants. But, keep in mind, EVERY medication/pill/vitamin/foreign additive has side effects for somebody. And, I am not suprised the Doc said you were starving yourself--if you read my prior posts, I was too---but, when I increased my intake, I am losing fine now.
Actually, just weighed in today at 152.8! Total of 54.7 lbs since June 2nd. It's about 2.5 lbs a week--which is very close to the normal/healthy 1-2 lbs week. And, the only reason it's high, is because I am not all the way down yet---it keeps lowering my average each week, since I am nearing the end.

Molly, they sell Dr. Sears Protein Powder at the office--I never bought it or tried it---plus, I hate protien powder with a passion! I too don't measure or count numbers. I find it all to be to frustrating and actually conter-productive, because I fall back into "weight watcher" mode of thinking about my food intake 24/7 and end up gaining weight!!! :(
I try my hardest to get breakfast, but I am not the best... I normally just eat some raspberries, blueberries, grapes or egg. It helps me to "pre-pack" my lunch and keep the fridge at work filled with food I can nibble on at all times. I keep the following at work and home: cut up celery (by it already cut---I have no time in my schedule for anything), package of turkey oscar meyer hotdogs (0.5 grams of fat and like 40 cals, i think) , frozen grapes, frozen edamame (my favvvv), tons of fruit (canned, no sugar added) and veggies (also canned, no salt added). I do treat myself to "Slim-A-Bear" Bars (English Toffee and Vanilla) ONLY if I am dying for chocolate!! Just to clarify--I don't eat a lot of the canned stuff an a day---or week. I try to limit to 1-2 a week, since it's never really great for you. I read labels like an eagle eye/hawk!!
Normally my lunch is left-overs from dinner. We normally grill, bake, saute anything and everything.
Only recipe I could share, was my inventive No-Pasta Lasagna I made the other night--it was awesome! I just sub'd the noodles for eggplant. And I used turkey sausage and ground chix for the meat. You can email me for the whole recipe (xmush1620x@yahoo.com) -- hope I am allowed to put that on here. I'll find out! :) Good luck this week!!

Sue, I just did that calculator (didn't see a link, but searched it on the website)---I have no idea what I am looking at..... what's this all mean?

Body Fat %: 31.67
Body Fat Weight (lbs): 49.09
Lean Body Mass (lbs): 105.91
Daily Protein Requirement (g): 77.00
or # of Blocks of Protein: 11
# of Blocks of Carbohydrate: 11
# of Blocks of Fat: 11

Natalie, Sue, you guys rock! Thanks! Cherilyn, I take it back, the reason this diet works for me is the regular office visits, the vitamin regimin, the appetite suppressants AND Natalie and Sue! Its funny that you both suggest the zone protein powder because I asked about it at the Medizone office and the med asst. said that it wasn't for me but for when I am doing maintainence or something. But its come down to a matter of no protein or a protein-substitute. I am not even exaggerating, this weekend I smelled a pea soup brewing, it didn't even have meat in it, but it smelled like it did and I got horribly nauseous. I've never been pregnant but this aversion to meat sounds like some of the stories I have heard from pregnant women. I haven't bought the powder yet but someone gave me some zoic to try. I mixed it with some mixed berries, and its amazing. Like one gram of sugar and maybe one gram of carbs and then 21 grams of protein. Its pretty great. Does anyone have any experience with Zoic? Its nice to have found something I like but I don't want to be ruining any progress so if anyone has any comments about this drink, please share.
Also, I know medizone wants us to get at least 10-16 servings of protein. Does anyone know how many GRAMS of protein (like what you see on the product label) equals a serving of protein on the zone diet?
As always, THANK YOU!

Hi Molly!

Thanks for the compliments! I'm not familiar with Zoic. Protein servings in the one area called blocks. One Zone Protein conatins 7 grams of protein. The Zone Food Blocks tab in Quick Start Guide (link at right) shows block sizes for many common foods. You can determine your daily block requirement with the Zone Block and Body Fat Calculator (link at right).

Good luck!

<div class='NTForums_Quote'>Posted By Natalie on 10/06/2008 8:11 PM

Sue, I just did that calculator (didn't see a link, but searched it on the website)---I have no idea what I am looking at..... what's this all mean?

Body Fat %: 31.67
Body Fat Weight (lbs): 49.09
Lean Body Mass (lbs): 105.91
Daily Protein Requirement (g): 77.00
or # of Blocks of Protein: 11
# of Blocks of Carbohydrate: 11
# of Blocks of Fat: 11

</div>

Hi Natalie!

The first few numbers are a breakdown of your total weight. You have 49 pounds of fat which represents 31.67 % of your total weight. The remaining approximately 106 pounds of your total weight is the weight of everything else in your body (bones, muscles, etc.).

It shows you need to eat 77 grams of protein each day, which is 11 Zone protein blocks (1 Zone protein block contains 7 grams of protein). For each protein block you eat, you also eat 1 carbohydrate block and 1 fat block.

Your blocks can be split through the day to suit your needs, as long as you follow the Basic Zone Rules in Quick Start Guide (link at right). The typical 11 block day looks like this:

Breakfast: 3 P blocks, plus 3 C blocks, plus 3 F blocks

Lunch: 3 P blocks, plus 3 C blocks, plus 3 F blocks

Afternoon Snack: 1 P block, plus 1 C block, plus 1 F block

Dinner: 3 P blocks, plus 3 C blocks, plus 3 F blocks

Bedtime Snack: 1 P block, plus 1 C block, plus 1 F block

Look at the Woman's 7 Day Meal Planner (link at right) to see samples of real means and snacks for an 11 block day.

Have fun with it! It works great. I've been eating this way for over 13 years!

Once the diet pills end (phendimetrazine) and the very low calorie diet (mostly protein, with limits, very very low carb and no fat) most people begin to gain weight. The diet messes up the metabolism so once any normal food intake begins people gain all the weight right back. I've also heard that the pills mess with cortisol levels which stresses the adrenals (the source was my personal trainer) and makes you more likely to gain weight. Who knows. What I can say is that for the amount of money one spends on Medizone RX and supplements (to counter a poor diet) a personal trainer and healthy REAL Zone diet would create wellness and weight loss. If one balances out blood sugar the cravings go away. This program seems exactly the oposite of the Anti-Inflamation Zone diet.

I have been on and off the Zone for better than ten years. I got frustrated that I was plateauing for so long that I gave up on the Zone in June and tried MediZone. I spent almost $600 to drop less than 5 pounds in a month... I felt sick and tired despite the drugs. My first week back on the Zone I gained the weight back. If I stuck with that and spent more money and lost more weight to gain it back...

I wish you well whatever you decide. There is a vast difference between MediZone and the Dr. Sears Zone Diet.

Well, all I can say is to each there own. What works well for one, doesn't for another and vice versa. Not sure how you spent so much, as I am only spending $75 week. The first visit was more expensive, yes, but I have never paid that amount again. $75 a week--I get my vitamins else where---same thing, but saves money.

I could spend hours talking about this subject, but I too had a personal trainer and nutritionist helping me a couple years ago. It worked--no doubt about it, but I plateu'd and got discouraged and quit. I started at 232 and got down to 207. I kept it all off for those years, until I started Medizone--then I lost the rest I wanted to lose. I'll be the first person to tell you there is no easy way to lose weight and if you think you are taking the easy path, your only making the road ahead harder, for yourself. Excercise and diet works. Period. I just need Structure. This gives me that structure. Good luck!

Molly, how are you doing?

Sue, I should be transitioning soon to the Zone Diet, so all this information is VERY helpful and a bit overwhelming. But, I have the material, so I just need to familiarize myself with it all. I'm at 152 lbs and am finally in my goal size 6/8. But, I just booked my first cruise on Nov 8, so I might stay on the program and transition after the vacation, to ease the stress of learning something new...

Congratulations Natalie! You've done an outstanding job! You can be very proud of yourself.

I know how it feels to lose a significant amount of weight. I remember that at first I kept noticing how I was feeling so light, like my body was just there but not dragging me down. Hard to explain unless you've exeprienced it, but I'll bet you might have an idea of what I mean.

The transition to the zoen diet will probably be much easier than you think. The info in Quick Start Guide will be very helpful for you (link at right). The plate method and block method can be used interchangably from meal to meal if you like. Once you understand the basic concepts it's pretty easy, and there's plenty of help here in the forums! There's a lot of flexibility to the Zone diet and you can easily adapt it to any kind of eating situation (vacations, parties at work etc.). You've made a great choice with the Zone.

Have a geat time next month on the criuse!

Hi !

I'm 44 years old. I just started the Medi/Zone diet yesterday, Saturday, (after going to the Tampa Garcia office on Friday). It's after 6 a.m. and I haven't slept all night! Had insomnia from the pills...

In Dec. 2007, I had lap band surgery. I was 232. I did great for three months and lost about 32 lbs., (my weight fluctuates between 193 and 200 now), but then I quit losing. After a few months of not losing, I kind of gave up and because it was easy to eat liquids (I choke on solids, especially meats!), I started drinking a lot of milk shakes and ice cream. I can't usually eat any solids until after 4 p.m., when the band seems like it loosens. After 11 months, I decided to go on the Medi/Zone because my stepdaughter (age 24) had great results. She lost 60 lbs. in 3 1/2 months. She then lost her job in early September and could no longer afford the plan, but has only gained 15 lbs of it back. I figure, if I lose about 85 lbs, and I only gained 15 lbs back, I'd be very happy. The only problem she had was that she had severe hair loss. I was told that I could take Biotin to avoid that. I have very long hair and don't want it to fall out!

It's only Day 1 and already I'm having a problem. Since I can eat seafood better than hamburger, chicken or pork, I bought some canned tuna, shrimp and crab. My lap band keeps me from eating early in the day. I did try to eat about one ounce of canned shrimp and started choking, so I drank water throughout the day and kind of forgot about eating. Of course, then I had a headache and remembered they told me I'd get headaches/dizziness if I didn't eat. Later on, I tried some fat free cheese. (I bought a bunch of stuff last night at grocery store.) YUCK! It's awful! I managed to eat three slices but I didn't like it one bit. I then tried to eat some turkey, thinly sliced, but for some reason, I couldn't keep it down. (You're not supposed to throw up with a lap band, but sometimes I can't help it.)

So it hasn't been a very successful first day. I was interested in the protein powder discussions. (Yes, I read the entire four pages of threads.) I have some whey protein powder from a few months ago. Is that fat free? Will it work for this Medi/Zone diet? I suspect I may have to buy baby food meats or something if I can't eat the solid seafood/meat. Does the baby food meat have too much salt for this diet?

I'm interested in how the posters are doing now and if you've gained any weight back after completing the transitional stage. That's my biggest concern...I'll lose 85 lbs and gain it all back (after spending an enormous amount of money!)

I'm not from Sarasota, or Englewood; I'm from Los Angeles, but I saw this posting and wanted to join in the discussions. I just started the MediZone today, too. I visited the office in Beverly Hills, and had a two hour consultation. I opted out of the appetite suppresants cause they scared me a little, but got the multi-v, and the one that burns the fat (I can't remember its name). I'm 29yrs old, 5'8 and weigh 150. I've gained 20 lbs in the last 9 months from a combination of medicines that I've been on to fight a rare brain disorder called Mal de Debarquement Syndrome. Basically, I feel like I live on a boat all day long. One of the meds is Paxil, and it is known for making people gain weight, and that's what its done. I'm hoping to only lose the 20 lbs I gained; I really love being at 130 lbs.
I was really scared of getting the shots. Does anyone REALLY know if everything in it is natural? The last thing I need right now is to see my overall health take a dive cause of some injections. Has anyone had any side effects from the injections?
Well, I'll post as I go along. Here's to getting back in my size 6 jeans!!!

Kelly: don't worry, had the exact same worries you do about gaining it back after spending all this $ but trust me, after the 2nd or 3rd week, eating your old foods doesn't even appeal to you and eating the Zone way starts to get really easy. And if you do try an old carb like a bagel, you are just left tired and guilty. Your body has been so happy eating so well for the time you have been on the diet that once you introduce those old foods back, it tells you right away that it doesn't like the old habits. As for the powder drink, I had the exact same concern and no Zoner could really think of a drink but then I found the drink ZOIC. its amazing. Its in your grocery store, just ask for it. Its got a lot of protein and NO sugar. Mix it with frozen berries (like a bag of organic mixed berries). That is THE only drink I know of out there that works for this diet. Even the Zone's very own shakes have 12g of sugar. Sorry, I just can't wrap my mind around that. And actually your first day wasn't bad at all. You didn't fall off the diet, you just joined people like me who suffered that first (and AWFUL step -read my post about it) day. So good luck, I know you will do great.

Cynthia-Can't vouch for the shot, but I have never had an adverse reaction and I can only say it makes me feel great. I would ask for it if I wasn't on Medizone. And I am pretty strict with keeping to natural and organics for my body.

Natalie, did you ever get my email?

Hi Molly!

The sugars you mentioned in Zone shakes are the sugars that occur naturally in foods, not sugar as in sucrose(white sugar). As I understand, with Medizone you're not eating the Zone diet at first, though you might transition to the Zone diet later.

Hi Kelly!

I haven't ever done Medizone, but I've been very successful with the Zone diet and Dr. Sears Zone fish oil. I lost 100 pounds 13 years ago and have not gained it back.

My best to you!

Hi I'm from San Diego and just started Medizone today. I read all of these entries last week and it was so helpful to read all your experiences. I'm excited to try something new and glad for the support offered at the office. I'm hoping the weekly weigh in will be motivating. I'm 45 and over the last 2 years have gained 20 pounds. I would love to hear anyone elses experiences with Medizone, I think I'll need a lot of support.

This diet is VERY BAD! I went on this diet in brandon florida, then moved to the sarasota office and athough I lost 40 pounds i soon regained it when I went off the diet plus another 20 pounds! The pills they give you are like speed. They give you a racing heartbeat and made me crave alchohol daily although I have never been a drinker in my life. When I asked the doctor what to do he said Smoke a little pot instead!Then of course comes the phone calls trying to get you to come back at a discounted price because they know that when you stop the pills you will gain it all back! I have 10 friends that all had the same results as me and would rather not ever do this again. I cant believe the FDA has not shut these places down. I just found out I now have diabetes and I believe I may have all along and they never checked me, when this diet can cause irriversable kidney damage in diabetics! Do not go to medizone please! just go to your doctor first and ask them for advice.

Hi Mary, I just saw the post you did on Apr 27th. about MediZone. I too am in CA and I can't believe some of the things that people have written about this diet. My experiance has been wonderful and I have had no problems. However, I do think that it depends on the center you are at, and how much the pay attention to everything. I hope you are having success.