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 his 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 following article.

The Zone Vs Nutrisystem: How are they different? Like I said, the goal of both is mild ketosis and reduced insulin, both of which encourage your body to burn more fat. They do this by making sure you get a favorable ratio of protein, carbs, and fiber. The Zone is pretty specific about it. They want you to eat food in the following ratios: 40% carbs, 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” to keep you feeling full and burn fat, but you don’t really need to calculate the ratio of the food you eat because the company provides the food for you. And yes, the foods are high in protein and fiber and put you in ketosis. So both diets work on the same principle, but one does more 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 disapproves of 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 tweak 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 being said, they want you to add fresh, seasonal garnishes with the pre-packaged food so you get fresh food that is packed with vitamins and nutrients, but most of the work is done for you here.

I find the real difference between these two diets is the work involved. Both will give you a leaner and longer body as you burn fat and gain more muscle. Both are going to 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’d rather have someone else take care of it.