South beach diet

The choice of eating plans has never been wider for dieters. There are so many diets to choose in today’s society, just to name a few of them; low carb diets (low carbohydrate diets), low-fat diets, low-protein diets, reduced-calorie diets and etc. And now, the newest competitor within this field - The South Beach Diet (SBD) has taken America by storm, and is set to do the same worldwide.

SBD appears to differ from other diets in that it does not rely on low carbs or low fat. Instead, it's purpose is to educate people to rely on the right carbs and fats, and teach us to avoid the ‘bad’ ones. SBD also looks at the way we eat our food. It works on the principle that weight gain is caused by sugars and starches being absorbed into the bloodstream too quickly. Highly processed foods, for example, are digested and absorbed very quickly by our stomachs causing a surge in blood sugar and a craving for more carbs and more food.

South Beach Diet plan is not only for people who wish to lose weight. Studies have shown that the diet can help to reduce cholesterol as well as decrease the risk of cardiovascular problems. Of course, as with any diet, this eating plan does require both determination and willpower. Those that are accustomed to eating highly processed foods and saturated fats will have to make a radical change to their eating habits.

However, according to the creator of the diet, Dr Arthur Agatston, cravings for these unhealthy food types begin to disappear within the first week. The diet also encourages three meals a day, as well as regular healthy snacks. Satisfying your hunger is an important part of this plan.

South Beach Diet does not entail cutting out a particular food group
Unlike the popular Atkins Diet that relies on virtually no carbs and limitless proteins and fats, the South Beach Diet seems to be based around a balanced and healthy eating regime. ‘Good’ carbs (such as whole grains, fruit and vegetables) are encouraged, as are unsaturated fats. Exercise, although recommended as with most healthy eating plans, is not a necessity. However, it can help to speed up your weight loss.

South Beach Diet Phase
The South Beach Diet plan is based around 3 ‘phases’.
The initial Phase 1 or Rapid Weight Loss is the strictest of these. Phase one lasts for two weeks, many foods are prohibited during this time, and dieters should expect a rapid weight loss of up to thirteen pounds within 2 weeks.

Phase 2 (Ongoing Weight Loss) of the diet begins to re-introduce many of the prohibited foods back into the diet. There is no timescale set for phase two; you should remain on it until you have reached your target weight. During the Phase 2 weight loss is reduced to around 1-2 pounds per week.

The last phase or Phase 3, which is classed as more of a maintenance phase. The idea behind phase 3 is to see your new and improved eating habits as a new way of life rather than the continuation of a diet.