I am confused about when to include them and when not to. I read in mastering the zone that protein content of Carb rich sources like vegetables and grains are not included. I understand for veggies, but under grains on the Zone food block list says to read labels. It also states why C, P & F is not calculated in everything you eat, but to rely on the block method.

When do you need to rely on food labels to ascertain how many C, P & F blocks are in the food?

I noticed that the Steel cut oats I bought have 2 grams of F, 25 grams Carb and 5 Protein in 1/4 cup. So am I correct that I would only include the 3 Carb Blocks?

I have seen unsweetened cocoa powder used in receipes, the one I have in my cupboard has 2.5 grams of F, would I include the Fat content?

Can someone clarify when I need to include the C, P & F on labels in my blocks.

Another label calculation question (I have several of the zone books, which are slightly different in their material)...For calculation purposes C=9 grams (subtract fibre, divide by 9 or 10?), F = 1.5 grams (divide by 3 or 1.5?),
P = 7 grams (divide by # of grams on label by 7 grams)

Don't count the protein in plant foods, with the exception of soy and gluten "meat" (aka seitan). Not all of it is absorbed in the human digestive system. It's related to the plant fiber.

You would rely on labels when you have a combination of foods in one ready prepared food, when you purchase ready cooked meats, when you have a food that is not listed on the Zone Food Block list, etc.

Yes, if you have already subtracted total fiber from total carb to get the 25 grams carb.

Yes, you could count the fat in the cocoa powder if you used a significant amount, but usually you wouldn't need to count it.

Last question...divide the fat on the label by 3. a s block meal needs at least 9 grams fat in total, a 4 block meal at least 12 grams.

Thanks so much for the info. I have been keeping a journal of food items I use regularly as well as a daily journal of what I eat. Keeping notes is helpful to refer back to. For some reason the addition of fat blocks etc. is still very confusing to me. Eventually it will stick with me without having to refer to my journal. Thanks again.

I'm glad I could help. Journaling is good, especially while you're learning.