Dr. Arthur Agatston, creator of the South Beach Diet, claims that the South Beach Diet is not a traditional low-carbohydrate diet, but rather a balanced, moderate-carbohydrate diet. However, this diet is lower in carbohydrates than standard eating plans and is below the recommended daily intake for carbohydrates. The maximum amount of carbohydrates you can consume when following the South Beach diet is 28 percent of your total daily calories, while the recommended intake of carbohydrates per day is 45 percent to 65 percent of your total daily calories, according to MayoClinic.com.
Carbohydrates in Phase 1
The South Beach Diet consists of three phases and the first phase is the most restrictive. You are only allowed to obtain 10 percent of your daily caloric intake from carbohydrates in this phase, and most of these carbohydrates are derived from non-starchy vegetables. All breads, fruits, nuts, baked goods, refined starches and sugary desserts are forbidden during phase 1. This is a low-carbohydrate regimen that focuses on consumption of lean meats, seafood and healthy fats such as extra-virgin olive oil.
Carbohydrates in Phase 2
When you reach phase 2, certain complex carbohydrates are re-introduced into your diet. You are allowed to derive 27 percent of your daily caloric intake from carbohydrates in this phase. These carbohydrates can still come from vegetables, but include some whole grains. Nuts and some fruits are also allowed in this phase. Phase 2 is still quite low in carbohydrates and you remain in this phase until you reach your desired weight.
Carbohydrates in Phase 3
Phase 3 only increases your carbohydrate intake 1 percent to 28 percent of your total daily calories. This falls low in carbohydrates along with the other phases. This is the maintenance phase where you are supposed to transition from a diet to a lifestyle of eating this way. You can eat more balanced meals, while remaining within the carbohydrate boundaries. If you gain weight in this phase, the diet encourages you to limit your carbohydrates to approximately 20 g per day for two weeks again, as you did in the first phase.
Warning
It's unknown if the South Beach Diet poses any health risks, especially over the long term, according to MayoClinic.com. It is possible, however, that limiting carbohydrates to less than 20 g per day, as in phase 1 of the South Beach Diet, may lead to ketoacidosis, which occurs when your body does not receive sufficient glucose to properly break down fat. This condition can cause stupor, coma, dehydration, kidney stones and even death. During phase 1, you may experience loss of energy, as your body will be accustomed to using carbohydrates for energy. Talk with your doctor before drastically limiting your carbohydrate consumption.
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