Hi, I just started the Zone last week on my doctor's recommendation and I was very excited to purchase one of Dr. Sears' cookbooks. I went to my local bookstore and looked a few of them over and was very dismayed to find that all the recipes are for 4 block meals!!!! I am a female who should be eating 3-block meals according to the Zone. Are there any cookbooks of his that I am missing out on that primarily have 3-block meals? I was really surprised (and a bit upset) to find that a whole contingent of people on the Zone seemed to be disregarded. I've been downloading recipes off of the internet and that has been helpful, but I'd really like to have some cookbooks on hand as well. :?: Any suggestions on cookbooks or on how to convert 4 block recipes to 3 block ones? Thanks a lot!

Hi, 1. Make the 4 block meal and put 1/4 of it aside for a one block snack. 2. Make 3 times the 4 block meal. Split it into 4 portions when finished and you have 4 3 block meals. The extra meals can be saved for use during the week, or better yet, freeze them for quick meals to have on hand. 3. Make two times the 4 block meal adding one block of protein. Divide the finished product into 3 meals of 3P, 2 2/3 C, 2 2/3 F. This is still in the Zone. 4. Use 3/4 the amount of each ingredient in the 4 block meal (although not always easy to do) and you end up with a 3 block meal. Sue

Thanks for your response. I wish that there was an easier way to do it. How about a new cookbook Dr. Sears? You can call it "The 3 Block Book" or something equally catchy! :) Anyone still have suggestions on where to find recipes or other cookbooks?

Hi, Me again. Not to sound too simplistic, but what I find easiest for new zoners (and it's easiest for me) is to use the "Food Block Guide" on this site to make meals rather than recipes. Pick 3 blocks of P, 3 of C,and 3 of F from the list. All teh foods listed are Zone favorable. It's easier than making a recipe, you can choose your own favorites, and there are endless possibilities. All the foods on the list are Zone favorable. I've been eating this way for about 8 yrs. Once used to it I found I began naturally thinking in terms of Zone balance when I'd open the fridge to decide what to have for lunch, dinner, etc. It becomes second nature to put your meals together in the Zone, even when dining out. Good luck! Sue