Phase 1 of the South Beach Diet is the most restrictive portion of the South Beach Diet. Designed to eliminate food groups that may have a negative effect on the body, such as causing blood sugar increases that make a person feel hungry more quickly, the Phase 1 portion of the diet eliminates food groups such as most carbohydrates and fruits. Although Phase 1 is more restrictive, it is not without many options for lean proteins and vegetables.
Protein
Because Phase 1 of the South Beach Diet is designed to eliminate cravings, lean proteins are important and can be consumed in unlimited quantities. Beef options include extra lean and lean ground beef, sirloin, tenderloin, top loin and top round. Lamb selections include center cut, lamb chop and lamb loin. For all these choices, the fat should be removed prior to cooking. Boiled ham, Canadian bacon, pork loin and pork tenderloin are all a part of Phase 1 pork selections while poultry options include turkey bacon, turkey and chicken breast--including lunch meat options. For vegetarians, soy-based products, egg whites and light tofu are all Phase 1 options.
Nuts are also part of South Beach Phase 1 but are only allowed at one serving per day. These options include almonds, cashews, pecans, macadamia nuts, peanut butter, peanuts, pistachios and walnuts.
Vegetables
Like lean proteins, vegetables can be eaten in unlimited quantities. Numerous vegetables options are available for South Beach Phase 1, including artichokes, asparagus, green beans, legumes, black beans, butter beans, chickpeas, split peas, broccoli, bok choy, cabbage, collard greens, eggplant, lettuce, tomato, mushrooms, radishes, pickles, snow peas, spinach, summer squash, spaghetti squash, zucchini, tomato and alfalfa sprouts.
Low-Fat Dairy
Low-fat dairy products can serve as a healthy snack option while on South Beach Phase 1 or can be added to salads or lean protein sources. Choose from fat-free or low-fat dairy options, such as milk, soy milk, yogurt and cheeses such as American, cheddar, cottage cheese, cream cheese, feta, mozzarella, parmesan, provolone, ricotta and string cheese.
Healthy Fats
Phase 1 includes the option of incorporating healthy fats, such as avocados, into a meal. These include olive or canola oil, guacamole, margarine, mayonnaise, olives and salad dressing.
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