The South Beach Diet, formulated by Dr. Agatston, a cardiologist, is based on eating the best carbohydrates and fats for the body. The diet is divided into three phases, with the final phase being maintenance for the long term. Part of the philosophy of this plan is to not go hungry or feel like you're denying yourself of the pleasure of eating. It's important to eat snacks, but they must be healthy.
Healthy Vegetables
Raw vegetables are nutritious, and they provide the satisfaction of filling you up. Crisp, raw vegetables, such as celery, bell peppers, broccoli, carrot sticks and cauliflower dipped in hummus or one of the South Beach dressings will satisfy the appetite and the desire for crunch. Another favorite vegetable snack among South Beach dieters is edamame, green soybeans that are sold in the produce department and frozen foods sections of most supermarkets.
Fruit Snacks
Eat healthy fruits, preferably fresh ones. You can also eat canned fruits if they are not packed in sugar or heavy syrup. These may include slices of apple, grapes, blueberries, grapefruits, oranges, papayas, pears, strawberries or watermelon. On hot summer days, some of the fruits, such as the grapes or blueberries, may be frozen. Pair some tart apple slices with a strip of string cheese for a delicious mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Nuts and Seeds
Most nuts and seeds are allowed in moderation. Nuts count as healthy fats, so only eat one serving at a time. This includes 15 almonds, 15 cashews, 8 macadamia nuts, 15 pecans, 15 walnuts 25 hazelnuts or 30 pistachio nuts. One serving of peanut butter is 2 tablespoons. Spread this on a couple of whole grain crackers to quickly squelch the hunger.
Cheese Snacks
Cheese is allowed on the South Beach Diet, but it must be fat-free or low-fat. Some cheeses you may enjoy snacking on include American, feta, mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, string and cottage cheese. Add the cheese to a crisp vegetable, such as celery or cucumber, for a delicious treat. Cottage cheese with tomatoes will satisfy your afternoon hunger without sabotaging your diet.
Miscellaneous Snack Ideas
You can enjoy a large variety of snacks on the South Beach Diet. Munch on a sugar free dill pickle or treat yourself to a boiled egg. Air-popped popcorn is a healthy snack to curb your appetite, as long as you don't add butter. Other snack ideas include sugar-free, fat-free yogurt or sugar-free Jello.
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