Created by Dr. Arthur Agatston, a Miami-based cardiologist, the South Beach Diet utilizes a low-carbohydrate diet plan that emphasizes reducing cravings. The South Beach Diet consists of three phases. The first phase involves a significant reduction in carbohydrate consumption; phases 2 and 3 allow more carbohydrates to be re-introduced into the diet. For purposes of this listing, foods approved for all phases will be included.
Protein Sources
When it comes to good protein choices for the South Beach Diet, the goal is selections that are lean and low-fat. For breakfast, these may include Canadian or turkey bacon and eggs. Lunch choices include lunch meats that do not contain excessive amounts of salt, such as turkey, ham and chicken or peanut butter. Other animal-based protein options suitable for all phases of the South Beach Diet include skinless chicken breasts, cornish game hens, shellfish, fish, sirloin, tenderloin and veal. Nonanimal based options, in addition to eggs, include peanut butter, peanuts, pecans, pistachios and tofu.
Vegetables
Because they are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, a number of vegetables are on the South Beach Diet list. Healthy choices include asparagus, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, eggplant, field greens, lettuce, mushrooms, soybeans, spinach, tomatoes and zucchini. Incorporating vegetables whenever possible raises the nutritional value of your diet and reduces cravings, as vegetables tend to be low on the glycemic index, meaning you will feel fuller, longer.
Miscellaneous
Cheese is an important food a person can eat while on the South Beach Diet, because it is good to incorporate as a snack or an additive with meals. Cheese options include fat-free or low-fat American or cheddar cheese. Other options include cottage cheese, feta and cream cheese substitute. Olive oil also is encouraged when cooking, while nonsugar seasonings and spices such as pepper can enhance foods' flavor without adding calories, sugar or salt.
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