The South Beach Diet burst onto the scene in 2003, offering a new look at low-carb diets. The South Beach Diet distinguished itself by introducing certain carbohydrates earlier than the Atkins Diet, perhaps the best known low-carb diet. While either losing weight or exercise can produce health benefits, you will accrue the most benefits if you achieve and maintain a healthy weight and exercise at the same time.
History
The South Beach Diet is a low glycemic index diet introduced by Dr. Arthur Agatston, a cardiologist, in 2003. A low glycemic index diet promotes carbohydrates such as vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole grains in addition to lean proteins and healthy fats. After these low glycemic index carbohydrates are digested, they release their energy more slowly than high glycemic index carbohydrates. This results in a more stable blood sugar level and less production of the hormone insulin in the body. Because insulin is used to store body fat, a low glycemic index diet can help you lose weight.
Misconceptions
The first South Beach Diet book did not place a strong emphasis on exercise. Some readers may have misinterpreted this. Agatston points out that while exercise is not required to lose weight following his diet plan, he does encourage regular exercise as a part of the South Beach Diet lifestyle, according to Prevention.com
Benefits
In a 2004 article, Agatston identified several benefits of exercising while following the South Beach Diet. Regular exercise will help you control your appetite and may help you resist cravings. Exercise lowers stress and elevates mood, both of which may reduce eating in response to emotional cues. You will be more energetic if you exercise regularly and may avoid feeling lethargic in the middle of the afternoon. Exercise can increase the rate at which you lose weight and make it easier to maintain your weight loss.
Disagreement
Some critics, such as Pennington Biomedical Research Center's director of preventive medicine research, Timothy Church, disagree with Agatston's assertions in "The South Beach Diet Supercharged" that 20 minutes of walking according to the "supercharged" interval program will burn more calories than 60 minutes of walking at a moderate pace. Agatston contends that his recommendations are the best way to improve overall fitness levels without injury and to burn a greater number of calories in a lesser amount of time.
Facts
Agatson recommends 20 minutes minimum of interval walking on alternate days, and 15 to 20 minutes of other exercise on the remaining days so that you are exercising every day, according to Southbeachdiet.com. Whether you choose these particular recommendations or not, regular exercise should be a part of any healthy lifestyle.
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