What is the difference between Zone Diet and Nutrisystem? I’ll tell you

The other day, I received an email from someone who had been doing some research on the Nutrisystem and Zone Diet programs. He was surprised to learn that both programs are low-carb, high-protein diets that put your body into ketosis in the same way as the other. As a result, I wanted to know how these two diets really differ. I will discuss more about this matter in the next article.

The Zone Vs Nutrisystem: How are they different? Like I said, the goal of both is mild ketosis and insulin reduction, both of which encourage your body to burn more fat. They do this by making sure you get a favorable ratio of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. The Zone is pretty specific about it. They want you to eat food in the following proportions: 40% carbohydrates, 30% protein, and 30% fat. This ratio is supposed to put you “in the zone” where you burn fat and don’t crave certain foods.

Nutrisystem also believes in a “favorable glycemic index” for keeping you feeling full and burning fat, but you don’t actually need to calculate the proportion of the foods you eat because the company provides the foods for you. And yes, the foods are high in protein and fiber and get you into ketosis. So both diets work on the same principle, but one does more of the work for you.

The calorie intake of both diets is quite similar (about 1000-1200 calories per day for women) and both diets require you to eat small, regular meals. The area strongly discourages processed or convenience foods. The idea is fresh, healthy and seasonal food.

Nutrisystem is a little different in that they give you pre-packaged foods and just modify those foods to be more glycemic friendly. They also offer comfort food fairs such as pizza, mac and cheese, burgers, muffins, pretzels, etc. Sure, they’ve changed foods to be healthier for you, but at least you don’t have to give up some of your favorite foods. That said, they want you to add fresh, seasonal garnishes to the prepackaged meal so you get fresh food that’s packed with vitamins and nutrients, but most of the work is done for you here.

I find that the real difference between these two diets is the work involved. Both will give you a leaner, longer body as you burn fat and gain more muscle. Both will put you in ketosis. But you provide the food and also do all the planning and research. The other requires you to take an active role in decision making and food preparation. What you like best really depends on how much you enjoy preparing your own food and making your own informed decisions or if you prefer someone else to take care of it.