The South Beach diet is a weight loss plan that focuses on reducing the intake of carbohydrates and replacing high-carbohydrates with lean proteins and fresh vegetables. This diet is based on the principle that carbohydrates, particularly simple carbohydrates found in white breads and pastas, contribute to excess body fat. The South Beach diet involves several phases, including phase 1, which is the most restrictive. However, you can enjoy several types of foods while on the first phase of this diet. Check with your physician before adopting the South Beach diet. You should only follow this diet under the supervision of a physician.
Raw Vegetables
Most raw vegetables are permissible during phase 1 of the South Beach diet. These include artichokes, broccoli, cabbage, celery, squash, alfalfa sprouts, tomatoes and zucchini. However, certain root vegetables, such as potatoes, beets and sweet potatoes, as well as corn and carrots, are not allowed during this phase.
Meats
Phase 1 of the South Beach diet plan focuses heavily on lean meats as protein sources. Choices include lean ground beef, top round, beef tenderloin, Canadian bacon, white meat chicken and turkey, sirloin and veal. Fatty meats, such as beef liver, honey-baked ham, chicken wings, goose and processed meats, are not permissible during phase 1.
Eggs
Whole eggs are permitted in unlimited amounts during phase 1 of the South Beach diet plan. You may opt for egg whites or egg substitutes if you want to limit your intake of saturated fats.
Vegetarian Meat Substitutes
All vegetarian meat substitutes are permitted during phase 1. These include soy-based meat substitutes such as textured vegetable protein, tofu and tempeh. Other meat substitutes, such as seitan and veggie burgers, are also allowed.
Dairy Products
You can enjoy low-fat and fat free dairy products during phase 1 of the South Beach diet. These products include 1-percent or fat free milk, as well as low-fat cheeses, yogurt, cottage cheese and sour cream.
References
- South Beach Diet Plan: South Beach Phase 1
- "The South Beach Diet;" Arthur Agatston, M.D.; 2003
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