Zone has many benefits
Dr. Sears and associates,
Thank you for your well-studied Zone program. I have used it successfully to eliminate symptoms of ADHD that I've had since childhood. I have also used the Zone to lose weight from time to time, as needed (i.e. after getting out of the Zone during holidays!).
My psychologist recommended the Zone Diet to eliminate large fluctuations in blood sugar and the reported drop in brain dopamine that accompanies low blood sugar. I had had shaky, painful hunger most of every day since childhood and had symptoms of poor concentration, poor organization, distractibility; restlessness and short attention-span alternating with attention over-focus most of my life. I had also been overly active as a child. I had been tested for ADHD as an adult because my job was in jeopardy due to the above symptoms and constant preoccupation with hunger.
Keeping my blood sugar regulated (I do not have diabetes) has resulted in 80-90 percent reduction in the ADHD symptoms above and helped me to stay employed, work more effectively and earn promotions.
I do not need or use prescribed stimulants, do not use cola or tea, and use one cup of coffee a day at breakfast.
I have also had about 12 years of not being hungry 'round the clock!!! This probably means more to me than the reduction in ADD symptoms. I finally experienced what other people experience - that a meal actually satisfies, and I don't live hungry all the time!
When I find myself gaining a few extra pounds, it's usually because I have "slipped" into unfavorable carb. or fat consumption. With the Zone program, it's really easy to get back to eating healthier nutrition. Within a day or two, I feel better and start to shed inches around the middle. After "cycling" this way a few times, I feel ready and motivated to stay in the Zone even during the next round of holidays. Frankly, my health feels much better than the brief gratification of eating more sweets than recommended.
I very much appreciate the work you and your colleagues are discovering, Dr. Sears! Thanks so much!
Edward L., licensed psychologist