Not sure where to post this - I feel like there should be a "Beginners" category...
I have just ordered the Quick Start Kit, and will begin the Zone wholeheartedly when it arrives. In the meantime, I am trying to learn about it and prepare myself with meal options, etc. I tried Atkins, and lost 10 lbs, but wasn't happy with that diet's restrictions on fruit and dairy. The Zone seems like it's going to be more difficult to find/create meals with the specific ratio, but if I can get the hang of it I think it will be a better fit for me.
I do not have a lot of weight to lose, but I would like to tone up. I guess you could say I want to do what Jennifer Aniston did - she wasn't heavy before, but is now much leaner. I did the calculator and I have 26% body fat, but only weigh 132 and 5'-5", so I would just like to shed some of the fat and have lean muscle, and maybe lose 10 lbs.
Here are some of my questions: I feel a little daunted trying to figure out meals with the 30-40-30 ratio, so would it be okay to rely strictly on the Zone meals and bars? Also, I've read that the Zone bars are great for snacks, and also to go along with your workout - 1/2 before and after - so does that bar with your workout count AS the snack or in addition? When I am ready to prepare meals myself, I need quick-fixes for breakfast and lunches that can travel to work. I don't like cottage cheese, and find egg whites too bland - so is egg substitute ok? I've never tried soy products, and some meal plans suggest soy sausage for breakfast - but would turkey sausage or chicken sausage be ok? (Whole Foods store has some great varieties of chicken sausage.) Also, another grocery store sells a roasted/rotisserie turkey breast that I can get several quick meals out of - is this ok as my protein? As I said, I'm looking for some quick options for when I can't cook a full meal. Otherwise, my dinners on Atkins were typically chicken or fish and lots of asparagus or broccoli - so I imagine I can have the same on the Zone.
Thanks in advance for any advice and opinions! |