Sorry, this is the 3rd time I've posted this evening, but I have another question: Where (if anywhere) can I find a more complete list of food blocks? Should I assume that if a food is not listed then it's off-limits?

The food list on the site is a good list, and most of the books are similar in content. I think there is a small paperback book that Sears put out, which has an extensive list, including a "dining out" section. I have seen this book at B&N. Can't come up with the name!

Teresa,

No, don't assume a food is off limits if it's not on the food block list. No food is totally off limits in the Zone. The lists contain foods commonly eaten in the American diet. Those on the block "best choice" lists are examples of common foods which are the most favorabel for the Zone.

Thanks, Sue and Cranberry; I haven't been able to get the book yet and was wondering how to estimate the "block value" of certain foods. With some (e.g., chocolate, ice cream) obviously less is better, but I've been surprised at the portion restrictions on foods like carrots and brown rice and am not sure my own judgement will be sufficient.

Even though you may not have gotten the book yet, you can still access a food block list from this website.

You can also use nutritional databases. I like using www.nutritiondata.com. You can get an idea of what a block size would be based on the fact that there are approximately 9 grams of carb per block; 7 grams of protein per block; and 3 grams of fat per block (may also need to consider the fat content of some proteins).

This website will also give you an estimated glycemic load, and that number will help you to determine the "favorability" of the carb chosen.

You're welcome Teresa!

I'd say stick mostly with the foods on the Zone food block list on this site for now. Once you read a Zone book you'll gain a better understanding how to work in other things like a little ice cream now and then. There's more to it than making the P, C, and F numbers work out on paper. Easiest would be if you used the plate method for now.

Cheers!

Sorry, but would have to disagree with Sue on that.

A nutritional database can give much more information on some foods that are not listed in the food block guide. And, the particular site that I mentioned has a wealth of other information.

Since the favorability of foods is based very closely to the glycemic load of that food, I see no reason why anyone would have to limit themselves to only foods listed in the food block guide. It isn't about making the numbers work out on paper; it is about using other resources to determine if unlisted foods can work in the Zone. And, it is about testing and testing to determine if the total meal is hormonally correct-which will obviously come with reading the book.

[quote]Posted By Cranberrycat on 07/29/2008 9:37 PM

Sorry, but would have to disagree with Sue on that.

[/quote]



Cran,


I'm confused and assume others who read this thread might be also. For the sake of clarification, what specifically is it that you disagree with in my previous post(s) in this thread?


Thanks!

[quote]Posted By Sue on 07/29/2008 9:26 PM
I'd say stick mostly with the foods on the Zone food block list on this site for now.
[/quote]


That is the statement that I disagree with.