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How I overcame my cellulite
and got my body in fantastic
youthful shape in a pretty short
amount of time (Part I) —
A review of The Zone Diet
And this weight loss is permanent - as long as you eat meals that are in “the zone.” You will lose excess body fat at the fastest possible rate and it is gone. Usually 1-2 lbs. per week. Even if you’ve “tried everything before.”
My cravings have gone bye-bye. Before the Zone, and this is not an exaggeration, I could get a craving like a pregnant woman for these chocolate cupcakes with amazing icing that were clear across town and I (or I’d send someone) would drive to get a box of them and eat a half of one before I got back to work. Now mind you a half would satisfy me, but the next day I’d start the day with the other half of the cupcake. And this could go on until the box ran out. I justified it by having barely any breakfast. Let me say, these cravings were fierce. I was Sasha Cupcake Fierce. Now I’m Zelma Zoned No Cravings.
I also don’t have the preggers bloat that could come out of nowhere even with taking Beeno before zoning.
You eat 3 Zone meals and 2 Zone snacks each day. Now this is just a lovefest for my ears and my stomach. I love food and love to eat. Now I’m eating, losing weight steadily and love my recipes.
The Zoner people say that you can reduce the likelihood of chronic disease and you can live longer and you don’t have to age quickly. More music to my ears.
I read in one Zone book that “if you find your self getting too skinny, you add a little more fat to the zone diet.” Can you imagine?? Too skinny??
You follow the meal plans and you will lose weight. Not maybe. You will. And it will be fat loss not water to gain back two days later.
Since starting this food idea 6 weeks ago, I overhauled how I eat and I haven’t had a potato, cupcake, dessert, banana, bowl of rice, popcorn or pasta to name a few. I haven’t even missed them and I was a junkie before!
Here are all the books I highly recommend. I’d get them all in order to fully understand why you’re eating, what you’re eating and to stay motivated:
We have added a "buy now" link underneath each book suggested by the Reviewer below. Clicking on these links will take you to our Amazon store. Amazon will give VentPark a few cents out of their own pocket for every purchase made through these links. This helps VentPark support this page ... and makes us happy.
Please dive into the Zone information as you could spend weeks reading, setting up your pantry and making recipes. The next installment of what I am doing will come soon!
Here's my Before Picture and my 6-weeks later After Picture!
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in paris says:
Thank you, Reviewer!
Off to read…. BTW, onetwoeight guessed the DVD’s a while ago and now I’m sure she’s right. But we’ll be sweet and keep our mouth shut
It’s your thunder, after all!
Reviewer says:
InParis: the Valerie something or Callenetics? Nope and no.
in paris says:
Nope! But she was right on the money — in a private email. Trust me, we know! Small hints that we do — your comment on shipping (verbatim from the site) and the price of the consultation
Was somewhat tempted to order these before, but now it’s a definite. Have downloaded her shorter workouts from Exercise TV in the meanwhile to get a taste…. And, yes, I’m reading up on the Zone. Egads! Realise I’ve actually been following it quite a bit this past month without knowing that’s what I was doing. Now, to dig deeper, and READ, READ, READ! (And then figure how to incorporate them into palatable meals for my BF — fattening sauces and bread on the side….
BizzyLizzy says:
Reviewer - Thank you so much for this write-up. I am getting the books ASAP!
P.S. Doesn’t Jennifer Aniston do The Zone??
Reviewer says:
InParis: You and 128 are bad, bad girls! Hold on (if you’re right) as there’s going to be a better $$ deal.
Bizzy: You know I did read that Jennifer Aniston does the Zone and I didn’t want to put it in without a lot of fact finding, but this is what I’ve heard and what a fabulous body and skin tone she has!
EVERYONE– please take lots of before and after pics in a bikini and take lots of measurements and find your current perfect-fit pants so that you can keep an accurate accounting of what happens. If you don’t, I’m not talking to you!!
in paris says:
LOL!
Too late for me! I ordered the DVDs right after our suspicions were confirmed. You have to understand that *everything* goes through a two-step process because of where I am (i.e., still have not gotten the skincare products you recommended, sigh) so I need to jump immediately or I’m sunk. Besides, it would be a blast to get comfy with them so I can go to a class when I visit family in the fall.
Reviewer says:
InParis: LOL. I love your spunk. Thanks for not stealing the thunder.
ckrodd says:
Thank you Reviewer!!! My first thought when I saw the image of the book was Jennifer Anniston. She looks great - can’t deny it. I ordered about 4 of the books from the library just now. Can’t wait to get started!
How can we do a challenge or some sort of accountability group? I’d like to give this 100%. I don’t know what the workout DVDs are - out of the loop there, but think the diet will be a big help.
Reviewer says:
ckrodd: Thank you. My idea is for everyone to get the books, then read them, take their pictures and measurements and weight (I forgot the weight in my post above), redo their refrigerators, and start in on some recipes. THEN we can start a challenge. We have quite a learning curve to undergo first before we can start. There’s so much information.
I should have the workout dvds PART II up before Monday.
FitnessAddict says:
Thank you for posting this info Reviewer. We wait for the crucial info regarding the DVDs! Question: this is really important to me. I have very well defined abs, as you guys know. And when I was in Nashville, my brothers’ friends said I had “jacked-up” arms. Funny term, but I love my “jacked-up” arms. Will I be able to keep the skinny-ripped look with this program? Does this guru promote this look? Thanks!
doerflinger2006 says:
This is fascinating stuff dearest Reviewer. My local library had a couple of the books, and I already started reading “Enter The Zone” at lunchtime today. I am so excited about all of this. Thanks for sharing your insights and the happy “success story” - I can’t wait for Part II!
Of the actual “cookbooks” is there one you liked better than the others?
belladiamondz says:
Very interesting review…funny and informative.
This sounds great and I appreciate you taking the time to write this.
So the whole Diet goes hand-in-hand with what DVD’s?
Can you at least tell us the name of them so I can look into additional reviews…pretty please!
Honestly, before I stumbled on this site I was looking all over, googling for days for TA METHOD reviews on her DVD’s. I was not going to spend money on something unless I knew exactly what I was getting into..then after reading your review I went ahead and spent $160.00…btwn DVD’s and webisodes…and got hooked!
I value your review and opinion…I just wanted to get ahead start on learning everything I could possibly learn about this new method.
Especially since we have a long weekend…I am not going to be checking or have access to a computer….please oh please oh please…..
Reviewer says:
Doerflinger: The Zone Perfect Cooking Made Easy is for women like Momof4 who doesn’t like more than 5 ingrediants. The Zone Perfect Cookbook by Walker is the polar opposite–high end, dazzle your friends stuff and the Zone Meals in Seconds is right inbetween. All good for different reasons, rushes, guests.
FitnessAddict: what the h$#@ are “jacked up abs?”!
She doesn’t promote anything but health and she has more lines than I’ve seen on anyone. I mean her hamstrings have lines I didn’t know existed. Does that help?
in paris says:
Reviewer: jacked-up is essentially a nice way of saying an expletive deletive which, in this case, is a compliment. And she said “arms” not “abs” — makes a bit more sense.
FitnessAddict: I agree with Reviewer, her big thing is health. Whilst she goes for long and lean, she is not obsessed by looks. Strength and wellness is paramount. Her program would fit in well with your jacked-ups arms, IMO. Skinny-ripped is a perfect fit — especially if that’s what makes you happy!
belladiamondz says:
in paris you know what this DVD is?
…I am lost where did I miss that post…
can someone please spill the beans already…this is causing me to sit on the edge of my seat in suspense
in paris says:
Bella: Next Monday, Reviewer will have it up. Better we all do our homework and read about the Zone. At this point, I only have an educated guess and was trying to help out. She is the one that has the practical knowledge.
Be patient.
We all should be grateful that she was our human guinea and willing to share her experience with us. And could she be any better at writing about it and getting us excited?
She’s writing as fast as she can!
FitnessAddict says:
“Jacked up” arms were the guys way of saying muscular arms for a woman, or skinny-ripped arms, which is why I put that at the end. That’s a healthy look, the lean, but strong dancer’s look. Not in any way an expletive. That’s a different term I would never use! Didn’t mean to offend you. (I did laugh when you thought I wrote “abs.” )
Oui, inparis, makes me happy. :) (Still laughing at Reviewer’s response to my brothers’ friends’ terminology. Must not hang out with younger men anymore.)
Reviewer says:
FitnessAddict: I assumed abs because of your 400 reps in the bathroom!
InParis makes me happy too.
want2b_teenytiny says:
Reviewer - Thanks for review on the zone! Will be waiting for your review on the DVDs. Post it soon and will read up on the zone.
in paris says:
That’s the key, FitnessAddict, whatever makes you happy!
BTW, you will have to tell us what you do to get those guns one of these days! A dream of mine, I tell you. I think it goes quite nicely with the Frankenstein scar
As for being an expletive, it is. Well, in my circle, at least. Then again, I am known for my trucker’s mouth…. oops!
in paris says:
Reviewer: I am convinced the Standing Ab sequence is key to whittling the area around the waist, not really building it up…. I’ve lost inches there, can see my waist — but then have a nice little tire between my ribs and non-existent hips, sigh. You had it in your thighs; mine is the ultimate beer belly. I seem to be losing everywhere but!
Kind of like all my fat was being squeezed up and down into the mid-section. I know that isn’t true. It’s simply a matter of everything else toning up (along with weight loss) and this problem area simply being accentuated. I look forward to the Zone helping me get there, though it will take a while to get a handle on what is and isn’t allowed.
You said you had to do a lot of homework and I am definitely one this is true for as well. I take heart that you eased into it, as that is surely the way I’ll go.
And how great is it that you’re happy???
Love it!
want2b_teenytiny says:
Here is some basic info on the zone diet: http://www.enterthezonediet.com/learn/barry-sears-zone-diet.html
FitnessAddict says:
I already had Mastering the Zone from years ago but because of this fabulous review, I ran out and bought Entering the Zone this afternoon because I couldn’t wait. (Believe it or not, that’s the ONLY Zone book the local bookstore had. And the only copy. ) I will be doing some reading over the long weekend. The smutty beach book I just started will have to wait. (And I just finished one so I’m at a good point to start my Zone reading.)
inparis, I don’t do anything but TA’s Mat arms and now the P57 arms with the 3 pound weights and some diamond push-ups on occasion for my arms. But muscle has memory so that’s all it takes to make my “guns” pop - those biceps remember when I was lifting like a crazy person. If I go any higher than the 3 pounds, my arms get huge. And you wear that “Frankenstein” scar with pride. (Call it something kinder; it’s part of you.) It’s because of you telling me about that scar and all of the support that you guys gave me after that rude acquaintance commented on my barely visible stretch marks on my upper arms that I went sleeveless all summer and rocked my guns. So, thank you!
And you know what? Since letting the sun hit them all summer, they have faded to the point where they are almost invisible.
mrshoneyclover says:
Inparis - its easy for you to tell us to be patient since you apparently know the secret and ordered them and got stuff off exercise tv.
so am I understanding this zone diet…basically you don’t eat bread, rice, pasta, ect. I don’t want to blow money on a meat filled cookbooks since I am not currently eating meat.
Reviewer says:
mrshoneyclover: I hope you weren’t irritated at inparis! I’m going to do Part II in a day or two. As she said, she could order them now and it may take weeks to get there due to going overseas. You would be able to get yours much sooner even if you ordered next week. She assumes that she’s figured it out but she’s doesn’t know.
It’s subjective about “blowing money.” I don’t know if you were asking me, but I’ll assume you were. Most cookbooks that are not labeled vegetarian have a mix of chicken, turkey, fish, etc.. These also have eggs, protein powder, cottage cheese. I hope that helps.
in paris says:
Thank you for coming to my defense, Reviewer. I was going to say as much — that I didn’t know because I don’t! I was trying to help out with FitnessAddict’s question as I know how busy you are and inserted my foot into my mouth… (I do hate the lack of editing function on this board!)
So I will fade into the background once again.
But, truly, thank you.
Reviewer says:
inparis: no fading necessary. mrshc probably didn’t mean it that way. I understand when I ‘want to know now’–we’ve all been there.
mrshoneyclover says:
It was totally meant in a whiny 4yr old voice - not nasty which I can see it totally does look like.
I am totally on edge though since my husband gets to come home for a visit in Oct and I really want to look great when he steps off that plane …then I have another month + to get even hotter when I hopefully see him for the holidays.
Reviewer - I found a Soy Zone that I’m gonna order and check out.
Reviewer says:
Oooh mrshc: don’t get the Soy Zone! That’s why I didn’t put that book on the “list.” Google ‘problems with soy’.
mrshoneyclover says:
ok I took it off my order. thanks!
gypsy says:
mshoney: Years ago I was vegan and did the zone diet and made ALOT of the recipes in the Soy Zone cookbook. Most were not yummy from what I remember- so yes, you should try a different cookbook option for that reason as well.
ckrodd says:
I’m half way through Enter the Zone. I know a plan like this will be effective, but my problem is overeating at night. I also love my green smoothie which doesn’t have any protein, the way he classifies protein, so I hate to give that up. I’m sure to “enter the zone” you have to commit 100% for the first week before it’s effective, so this is going to be a big shift for me.
I need to get protein powder. Are all the good ones expensive? What are some recommendations?
VentPark Ranger says:
Off-policy reply and responses moved to Web Rants Park. Here is Reviews Park policy.
belladiamondz says:
ckrodd
I have searched high and low for a good protein powder that does not have any artificial crap and sugar in it…this is flavored with stevia, which is much better for you! Enjoy!
here is what I use…both falvors are delish!
http://www.vitacost.com/NSI-Whey-Protein-Complex-with-BCAAs-Glutamine-and-Glutamine-Precursors-Vanilla
Reviewer says:
ckrodd: did you see the Whey To Go protein powder in my review above? It’s fantastic.
Arabella says:
Reviewer:
Honestly, are you getting a kick-back from the Amazon links?
Reviewer says:
Arabella: Did my review not come off as sincere? I get no kickback. I feel sad that when I’ve been vulnerable and posted my pictures and shared to help others that my credibility is being questioned.
Reviewer says:
Hi Khotran33: Thanks again for the postive words! Okay I’m posting here incase someone else asks the same. To answer your question if you were to get “one book”…that’s a tough one as I suspect that may be why they created so many. There is repetition in some of them (which my brain needed) and it also depends on your interest (anti-inflamation, aging, etc.) But you could always start with one and add-on later if you feel the need. The Enter the Zone is quite academic but few recipes. I’m glad that VentPark put the pictures of the books as the names are so similar and I just had to refer back. I’d go with Zone Meals in Seconds. Also if you click on some of those books they are being sold for $.01 each which makes the previous post about me getting a kickback silly.
torontomom says:
reviewer your review came off as totally and completely sincere please dont get your feelings hurt - theres always a naysayer in a crowd but beleive me when i tell you we are all waiting for part 2 of your completely selfless tale of getting rid of cellulite.. i will go to my library tommorrow and get any zone material i can and study up whilst waiting for news on the dvds which i NEED!!!! P57 is good but IMO not tough enough..
thanks again reviewer for posting pics and telling us your story - you look great (cant beleive your a grandmother!!!) and i think i speak for most of us gals when i say we really appreciate your effort
poppyblu says:
Thank you Reviewer! My local library has a 4 day holiday, so I willl have to wait until Tuesday to grab a copy of The Zone. Your writing is most entertaining; you should be published and paid. You entertained and hit many basis we all face as we age.
I have been incorporating more vegs (leady greens) and fruits in my diet with limited and selective carbs. I figured going Asian-style with heavy vegs, using herbs instead of heavy sauces, and meats shredded thinly and added as a “seasoning” and using Mediterranean-style meals would help in my quest. I need to read to see if the elimination of carbs is the key for me.
About that workout, I think I know what you are doing, but I will wait for your continued writing. Thanks again!
poppyblu says:
that’s supposed to be leafy greens!
Reviewer says:
Torontomom and Poppyblu: thank you both for your generous words–very much appreciated. I’m up working tonight on the next installment. I’m happy you are all willing to try the Zone. It worked for me quickly and steadily along with the other things I’ve been doing. I hope everyone can see as much success as I’ve seen and like FitnessAddict, I’m going to keep going!
When does Momof4 get back?
londoner says:
Dear Reviewer,
Thank You so much for taking the time and trouble to post the new review, I cannot wait for part 2!!! I do not post often but check in daily to see what new things are being done and said on the board.I have been checking in since January and what keeps me coming back is the positivity and camaradarie of everyone, as well as all the new things that I have learnt…it is natural for things to evolve and for people to try new things.I was certainly given a very warm welcome when I finally decided to post as was all the newbies. I for one, love all your reviews and would not want you to stop.Please feel better and know that we are behind you all the way.
in paris says:
Reviewer:
I love what you’ve written! Yes, the Zone has been around forever but I’d never really looked into it that seriously because it was so complicated. This is making me take a second look.
Your reviews are earnest, honest, and funny!
And you’ve never claimed that they will work for everybody — merely that it was what worked for you. Same as the skincare line, same as TA.
I love that you supply links so we can read reviews on Amazon (which is what I would have done anyways). It makes it so much easier to research! Granted, in my enthusiasm over the skincare line, I did order from the links rather than looking for someone who shipped to France — which is my bad (and why I still don’t have them). But where would I have heard about it if not from you?
I realise I’m one that pissed some of the regulars off (and thusly “soured” the board in their eyes) by my questioning of TA’s belief that you must follow her method ONLY. I apologise that this is reflected in some questioning your motives. Let them rant at me, not you.
You are the one that is sharing your experiences, with pictures to boot, of what worked for you. Thank you!
FitnessAddict says:
Reviewer, I cannot remember if you already answered this question, so forgive me if you did. With your new method, are free weights used, or do you solely use body weight or do you use both free weights and body weight for muscle work (such as push ups, etc.)?
Thank you.
Also, I cannot believe this did not dawn on me before since I had Mastering the Zone years ago, but Barry Sears lives in the town next to mine! (I think I had the book before I moved to this town.) I am going to be driving through his town even more than I already do and find that man and pose as many questions to him as I can!
Reviewer says:
Londoner and Inparis: Merci. Thank you for your kind words and support. Yes, I didn’t know if the venom yesterday was towards me or VP but yikes! Just tryin’ to help out my friends here like all of us do.
FitnessAddict: How cool is that that you can talk to him! You’ll have to be our on the scenes reporter! I’m telling you this diet is AMAZING. I’m just grateful they have the cookbooks. I just saw a friend after a 3 months hiatus and she couldn’t believe her eyes. She just kept going on about the improvement and that I had lost so much all over. Yea! So yes, you do weights and body resistance. I’m working on the writing still. I can’t wait to talk to you after I post.
Yvette69 says:
in paris: You didn’t sour the board for me. I find your honesty, objectivity and candour refreshing.
Reviewer: Thank you for taking the time to write this - you’re clearly busy with life at the moment. I think the issue that some folks have is the Amazon links, which I admit aroused my suspicion some time ago. After seeing that Ventpark added those Zone book links with a disclaimer, I’ve worked out where the chips fall and don’t begrudge Ventpark for trying to make a few bucks; after all, web hosting doesn’t pay for itself.
Anyway, back to stalking Exercise TV looking for clues. I’m ashamed to admit that my normally strong Google-Fu is weak on this one.
momof4 says:
Geesh, this was like a month ago!!! I can’t believe I haven’t read this yet! Another funny great review!!!!! I feel as if you were describing me up there that got you to the Zone in the first place!!!! You are very generous to post this for us!! Off to read the other one….
BTW are you still only eating according to the Zone?
Reviewer says:
Yes Momof4 I am all about the Zone diet!! It keeps me clear headed, energized, zestful and it helps keep the flab off.