Zone Block Macronutrient Question - Coach's Nutrition Lecture - CFJ #63 Nov 2007

[Colin Hughes]

I have been CrossFitting for a number of months. Over the past two weeks I have implemented the Zone Diet. The results have been very pleasing. I should probably shut my mouth and move on......however;

While watching the video article (Nutrition Lecture) from the Nov 2007 CFJ #63, Coach makes reference to the importance of weighing and measuring foods for elite physical output.

Here's the question. Which is more favorable? Weighing and measuring foods as they relate to Zone blocks? (as I am doing) or Weighing and measuring foods to achieve a 40-30-30 balance?

I ask this because Zone blocks, as stated in the May 2004 CFJ #21 block chart, may technically throw off the 40-30-30 balance. (Example: 1/2 cup Kidney Beans = 2 carb blocks, but also 1 protein block as well.)

I apologize for the over-analysis, but I need to set my mind at ease.
Thanks in advance,
Colin

[Alexander Kornishev]

I am no expert, but my guess would be that block system was introduced to make calculations easier, and since beans (as in your example) is a source of poor protein it is ignored and only carbs are considered. People who criticize Zone pointing to this particular assumption as one of down sides of the diet, but I would say that block approach is good enough for most people even though none of the foods is a source of only one macronutrient. As my mentor is always saying: nothing is supposed to be perfect, just good enough to work ;-)
~good luck!