The Vegan South Beach Diet

The South Beach Diet was developed by Dr. Arthur Agatston as a heart-healthy diet for heart disease patients. However, this diet is now commonly used as a weight loss plan. The standard South Beach diet relies heavily on meats, eggs and low-fat dairy products as protein sources, and restricts consumption of carbohydrates. Although it is primarily designed for omnivores, several foods permitted under this plan are suitable for a vegan diet, which excludes dairy, meat and eggs.

Tofu

Tofu is a staple of Japanese cuisine, and also appears prominently in Thai and Chinese dishes. In recent decades, tofu has gained popularity in Western countries as a meat replacement for vegetarians and vegans. Western groceries carry tofu in two forms: Silken, which is suitable for smoothies and desserts; and firm, which can be sliced or cubed for use in soups, stir fry dishes and curries. This meat replacement is low in carbohydrates, and offers lean protein and calcium for vegan South Beach dieters.

Seitan

Like tofu, seitan is a meat replacement used in vegetarian and vegan diets. This food is made from wheat gluten, and typically comes packed in water. Some health food stores carry seitan marinated in herbs and spices to enhance its flavor. Seitan offers a texture similar to white-meat chicken. It holds up well when fried, making it appropriate for Asian-style stir fry dishes. This vegan food is a lean source of protein; however, you should avoid seitan if you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Vegetables

Most vegetables, except for starchy vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes and corn, are permissible under the South Beach diet. These vegan foods supply dietary fiber, which helps regulate digestion. Dietary fiber also expands in your digestive tract, which may help prevent overeating. Fresh vegetables such as artichoke hearts, spinach, snow peas, squash, tomatoes, broccoli and asparagus are abundant vegan sources of vitamins and minerals such as copper, vitamin C, boron and vitamin E.

Nuts

Nuts are abundant sources of lean protein and unsaturated fats. Like vegetables, they also provide dietary fiber. Peanuts, almonds, cashews, pistachios, Brazil nuts and pecans are permissible under the South Beach diet, and are appropriate for vegans. However, limit your portions to a small handful per day to avoid adding excess calories to your diet. Also, choose roasted, unsalted varieties to help manage your sodium and fat intake.