Created in 2003 by Dr. Arthur Agatson, the South Beach Diet focuses on consuming the right amounts and types of carbohydrates, fats and proteins to help promote weight loss. The diet is broken up into three phases. In phase one, dieters are asked to restrict all carbohydrate intake for two weeks, omitting sugars and sweetened beverages. Phase two slowly reintroduces high-fiber, nutrient-rich carbohydrate foods back into the diet and lasts until weight loss is achieved. Phase three focuses on weight maintenance and a well-balanced diet. Low-calorie, sugar-free fluids are encouraged throughout the diet to help prevent dehydration and promote weight loss.
Water
Drinking water is encouraged throughout the South Beach Diet. While plain water is preferred, club soda, seltzer water and sugar-free flavored water are all acceptable beverages while on the South Beach Diet. According to a study in the research journal "Obesity," water may help to promote weight loss in overweight women. Increasing water intake by just 1 liter each day resulted in decreased body weight, a smaller waist and a lower body-fat percentage for participants.
Dairy
The South Beach Diet allows participants to consume low-fat or skim milk along with soy milk. If you consume soy milk, it must contain less than 4 g of fat per 8 oz. serving. It can be plain or flavored, as long as it contains no high fructose corn syrup.
Coffee and Tea
While on the South Beach Diet, dieters are free to consume either regular or decaffeinated coffee and tea. All forms of tea are acceptable including green, black and herbal teas. The coffee and teas should contain no added sugars and, if caffeinated, should be consumed in moderation. Alternative sweeteners such as sucralose, or Splenda, are permitted, along with low-fat or skim milk as flavoring options.
Juice
The South Beach Diet allows participants to consume vegetable juice or vegetable juice cocktail. You should avoid fruit juice, due to its high sugar content, as well as fruit-flavored sodas and flavored waters with added sugars.
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