I am sorry as I figured I could find my answer to this question somewhere but have been looking for about 30mins and can't find it... so I figured I would post a question.

I did the Zone diet about a year ago and really liked and drifted. Now I am getting married and its time to get back on the wagon!

I guess I have two questions:

1) What qualifies as "low fat" cheese? My memory wants to tell me 6g Fat or less per oz? Is that correct?

2) I remember there being a 2-3 week jumpstart but can't seem to find that either. I think I am just not super savvy to this website and the forums yet as I am sure this info is on here somewhere.

So sorry to bother you, but please know I REALLY appreciate your advise/assistance!

Hi bridget,


1. Look for a cheeses that say "reduced fat" on the label, or, in the case of mozzarella, "part skim". Most of them contain about 4 to 6 g fat to every 7 g protein.

2. I'm not familiar with any 2-3 week jumpstart plans for the Zone. You might be remembering that many people lose more weight in the first week or two as they release retained fluid.

Good luck!

Thanks! I thought that was what I was remembering about the cheese- good to know to balance it w/ the protein though!!!

I think its phase 1 I may be referring to- does that sound correct? You do something more strict then- correct?

You're welcome!

"I think its phase 1 I may be referring to- does that sound correct? You do something more strict then- correct?"

No, that's not the Zone. You mith be confusing the Zone with the South Beach Diet, which has phases. With the Zone diet you eat the same way from the very start.

I think you are right. I tried South Beach summer 08 and Zone about a year ago. Thanks!

YES, South Beach has 3 phases with a jump start.
A friend was doing South Beach when I started Zone, 5 years ago, and I then read to compare.
South Beach on the surface appears similar in food choices and similar balance, but is not quite the same.
SB does not have the science behind it, esp. the hormonal control.