The South Beach Diet was begun in the 1980’s as an alternative to the low-fat diets which were being advocated by the American Heart Association during that time.  The South Beach Diet was designed by Arthur Agatston (a cardiologist) and Marie Almon (a dietician).  The original purpose of the plan was to help prevent heart disease; however, the plan gained popularity in the early 2000’s as a weight loss program.

The South Beach Diet focuses on “Good Carbs” vs “Bad Carbs” and “Good Fats” vs “Bad Fats” as the basic premise.  It is divided into three phases with each phase being less restrictive in what one is allowed eat.

Phase 1 involves the elimination of all sugars, processed carbohydrates, fruits, and some high-glycemic vegetables for the first 2 weeks.  The idea behind this elimination is to break the hunger cycle and result in significant weight loss.

Phase 2 involves the re-introduction most fruits and vegetables along with some whole grains.  This phase lasts as long as necessary for the dieter to lose the desired amount of weight.

Phase 3 is basically maintenance and lasts for the rest of the dieter’s life.  While there are no specific rules in this phase it operates on the premise that the dieter has fully embraced and understands the principles of the diet and will live by them.

One thing that could be a draw for some people is the availability of packaged foods that are specifically designed for the different phases of the diet.  However, living off of packaged foods for a high percentage of ones daily caloric consumption does not teach one how to eat a healthy balanced diet on their own.  Another thing that can be difficult for many to follow is the simple issue of the strict restriction of food groups required for this plan to be successful.

The South Beach Diet is often placed into the category of “low-carb” which it is in some ways; however, it is also based on the “glycemic index” which it could also be categorized as. 

Like many popular diet plans The South Beach Diet is available in book form and on-line which makes it much more convenient for many people wishing to follow it.

Complete Diet Program: Try the proven diet that has helped 100,000’s lose weight. Free Profile.

No related posts.