South Beach Diet
The South Beach Diet was created by Dr. Arthur Agatston, a Miami cardiologist. It is outlined in his best-selling book, “The South Beach Diet: The Delicious, Doctor-Designed, Foolproof Plan for Fast and Healthy Weight Loss”.
Many people mistakenly believe that the South Beach Diet is an Atkins, or “low-carb” diet, but the plan is a bit more complex. This diet makes use of the glycemic index to decide which foods and in what quantities certain foods are acceptable.
Like the Atkins diet, the South Beach Diet begins with two weeks of a strict (some might say “detox”, or, less generously, starvation) phase, and lifts restrictions as it progresses. During that initial stage, all enriched, or “bad” carbs, including pasta, bread, potatoes, fruits, and sweets, are banned. Instead, Dr. Agatston recommends vegetables, lean meats, and small quantities of fat-free dairy products.
After two weeks, dieters are permitted to add a few prohibited items back into their daily food intake. This second, less-restricted stage continues until weight-loss goals are achieved. During the third and final stage, participants can eat whatever they wish, under the assumption that they have established healthy eating habits.
Portion control and the importance of regular exercise are emphasized throughout the program. Long term, the South Beach Diet does not eliminate any food groups. Registered dietitians and other independent evaluators say the South Beach Diet is generally safe and healthy, though people trying to lose weight should be aware that it may not work for everyone. They also warn that the weight lost during the first stage is likely to be water, not true fat loss.
The South Beach Diet is not a “fad” or “get-thin-quick” diet, and as such, it promotes lifestyle changes and education. Always check with your physician before beginning any weight loss or exercise program.