Southbeach Diet Keeps You Healthy
The South Beach diet plan was developed by Dr Agatston in 1999 in order to help patients combat heart problems, but the diet also has weight loss effect. It works on the idea that carbs cause weight gain, however, the diet does not eliminate the carbs completely. It divides them into “good" and “bad" ones. You eat three healthy balanced meals a day and snacks are also allowed.The South Beach diet has three phases:
- The initial weight loss period includes 2 weeks of strict dieting. You eat normal portion sizes, but almost all carbs are excluded
- The second phase lasts until you reach your desired weight. Then “good" carbs are slowly introduced while weight loss continues
- The third phase is returning to normal. It aims at maintaining your desired weight with a healthy diet. If the person starts to gain weight again, he or she needs to return to the first phase
It is also recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day and take a daily calcium supplement. The diet is not recommended for people with kidney problems. Besides, it's necessary to consult a dietician before going on a diet.
Pluses of the South Beach Diet
- It is scientifically sound
- It improves cholesterol and insulin levels
- It does not exclude any major food groups
- It does not have to be combined with exercise
Reasons Against the South Beach Diet
- It can be restrictive if you are not able to eat dairy products
- A lot of the initial weight loss may be just water loss resulting from cutting out carbs
All in all, it is a good diet. It keeps one healthy while reducing bad cholesterol. It has one of the lowest dropout rates for modern diets and offers practical eating patterns. It causes fast weight loss at the beginning and a steady weight loss continues until you reach your desired weight. Due to this diet the weight is very likely to stay off. Those interested in a food list for South Beach diet and South Beach diet recipes can easily find South Beach diet for free online.