Dr. Arthur Agatston introduced the South Beach Diet as a commercial diet, not a medial diet. The theory behind the South Beach Diet and other low carbohydrate diets is that reduction of carbohydrates and sugar will keep insulin and glucose levels from rising, which prevents fat storage. The diet aims at altering your body's energy sources from carbohydrates to fat to accomplish weight loss.
South Beach Diet General Guidelines
The South Beach Diet is comprised of three phases. Phase one vastly limits consumption of carbohydrates and sugar. You are only allowed to derive 10 percent of your total calories per day from carbohydrates. This is a lot lower than the suggested over 45 percent of carbohydrates per day, according to MayoClinic.com. Phase one restricts all breads, grains, starchy vegetables and sugary products. Phases two and three increase carbohydrate consumption slightly to 27 percent and 28 percent, however, this is still lower than the recommended amount.
Causes of Ketosis
Ketosis occurs when your body doesn't have enough carbohydrates to sufficiently break down fats; therefore, partially broken down fat or ketones remain in your body. The Weight-control Information Network Online states that eating less than 130 g of carbohydrates per day can lead to ketosis. The most carbohydrates allowed on the South Beach Diet would be 28 percent of your total daily calories, which may be less than 130 g per day. You are at high risk of going into a state of ketosis during the first phase of the South Beach Diet as you are limiting your carbohydrates drastically.
Symptoms of Ketosis
Ketosis can cause an excess production of uric acid in your body, which can lead to gout and kidney stones. You may notice initial symptoms of ketosis such as loss of energy and feeling light headed and weak. If ketosis is left untreated it can severely threaten your health and may lead to stupor, coma and even death.
Warning
People who suffer from diabetes should be especially careful about starting the South Beach Diet or any low-carbohydrate diet, as diabetics rely on carbohydrates and sugar to balance their insulin levels. The Weight-control Information Network notes that ketosis may be especially risky for pregnant women as well as those with diabetes or kidney disease. You should talk with your doctor before starting the South Beach Diet as there are other risks along with ketosis associated with low-carbohydrate consumption such as insufficient fiber, fatigue, nausea and malnutrition.
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