The South Beach diet is a low-carb diet with a twist. Rather than avoiding all carbs, the diet makes a distinction between "good carbs" and "bad carbs." Good carbs, such as whole grains and fruits, are allowed in moderation. Phase one of the diet lasts two weeks and bans most carbohydrates. In phase two, good carbs are reintroduced in moderation.
Keep Liquids Handy
The South Beach diet advocates drinking water throughout the day. Not only is this healthy, but drinking water can help you control hunger and cravings. It will also give your skin a beautiful glow. South Beach doesn't prohibit caffeine, so take this opportunity to add tea and coffee to your diet. Always take a bottle of water along with you. The South Beach diet recommends taking a number of supplements, including flaxseed oil, fiber and a multivitamin. Since you're likely to take those spread throughout the day, it's important that you always keep water handy.
Satisfy Hunger with Fats
Fats help you feel fuller for longer. While many low-carb diets allow as much fat as you want to eat, the South Beach diet puts emphasis on heart-healthy fats such as avocado, olive oil, fatty fish and nuts. Monounsaturated fats like these can help lower cholesterol and protect your heart.
Keep Good Carbs Around
Rather than waiting until a carbohydrate craving strikes, stock up your pantry with beans, whole grain pasta and bread, nuts and seeds, brown rice and fiber-rich cereals. These are more filling than white carbs and are absorbed more slowly, so they prevent abrupt changes in your blood sugar. Fruits and vegetables are also good carb choices.
References
- Marie Claire: South Beach Diet Tips
- SouthBeachDiet.com: South Beach Diet Tips
- The South Beach Diet: The Delicious, Doctor-Designed, Foolproof Plan for Fast and Healthy Weight Loss; Arthur Agatston; Rodale Books; 2003
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