Smart Shopping for South Beach Diet Supercharged Foods

The dietary component of this program is well-balanced, and the variety will help keep you from getting bored with your meal options. In Phase One, there are several foods you should avoid, so it is best to be aware of these foods before shopping. In Phase Two and Three, many more foods are acceptable, but there is a daily intake limit for some fruits and grain products. A list of foods that you should strictly limit or avoid is included for each phase. Sugar is heavily reduced, but artificial sweeteners are still allowed. As the long-term safety of many artificial sweeteners is still being debated, don't overload on packaged products that contain these ingredients. Stick to unprocessed, fresh, whole foods, and you will easily meet the requirements of the program.

What to Look for

You will be eating three full meals and two snacks per day, so be sure to stock up on your shopping trip. Throughout the program, you should focus on purchasing fresh produce. Choose fruits and vegetables that are at the proper ripeness, with no noticeable blemishes. Select your meat wisely, choosing only the leanest cuts. Opt for what the book terms "good fats," which are polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids found in foods like olive oil, nuts and seeds. Buy some foods that are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids--such as salmon, which can be added to a salad for a well-balanced meal.

During the first phase, you will need to eliminate fruits, grains and alcohol, so plan your shopping accordingly. As you progress into Phase Two, you will be able to incorporate fruits, grain products and root vegetables into your diet. Citrus, berries, apples and pears are all good fruit choices. When selecting grain products, choose those made with 100 percent whole grain. These foods have a lower glycemic index and are high in fiber, which is what the book terms "good carbs." Keep in mind that there is a daily limit for these foods, so you'll want to buy only what you will be able to eat before it spoils.

Common Pitfalls

The book warns dieters to avoid the saturated fat found in high-fat meats and the trans fats often found in packaged foods like baked goods. When shopping, stick to the perimeter of the store, where the produce, meats and dairy products are found. Only venture into the aisles when you need to buy whole-grain flours and pastas.

It is often hard to avoid temptation when it is sitting right in your kitchen. Avoid purchasing the restricted foods during the program, such as fruits and grain products in Phase One and most processed foods throughout the entire program. Some foods that are considered fruits and vegetables are still restricted by this program. You'll want to avoid purchasing corn, white potatoes, fruits canned in syrup, watermelon and raisins.