It was cardiologist Dr. Agatston who originally conceived the South Beach diet for his heart patients. The idea behind it: To lower and keep the blood sugar level constantly low in order to normalize insulin secretion – and thus avoid ravenous appetite.

This works thanks to foods that have a low glycemic index. Similar to the Atkins diet, carbohydrates are largely avoided, although Agatston is not as strict as Atkins. Carbohydrates are allowed – if they are among the “good” ones, similar to the Glyx diet.

The South Beach Diet is Divided into Three Phases:

Phase 1

Here, perseverance is the order of the day: for 14 days we reduce the consumption of carbohydrates to a minimum and do without bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, baked goods, sweets and sugar. Fruit and vegetables with a high sugar content are also eliminated. Vegetables such as asparagus, spinach or broccoli and fish are allowed.

Phase 2

In Phase 2, we will continue to avoid white bread, pasta, rice and potatoes, and will continue to use vegetables and fruit that contain little sugar, as well as whole grain products. Phase two continues until you have reached your desired weight.

Phase 3

In the third phase of the South Beach Diet we slowly increase the carbohydrates again. As soon as the weight rises, reduce the intake again.

A total of six meals are planned for the day. Drink a lot in addition to the meals! Water and herbal tea are allowed, sugary drinks are completely avoided!

Can I Lose Weight Quickly with The South Beach Diet?

Yes, especially in the first phase we lose weight quickly, about 4-6 kilos of weight loss is possible. After the two weeks the pounds drop a little more slowly, about half a kilo per week.

Does The South Beach Diet Integrate well into My Everyday Life?

Those who stick to the nutritional plan of the South Beach Diet have to plan well in advance. The recipes from Dr. Agatston’s cookbook are all freshly cooked. A visit to a restaurant can quickly become a challenge during the first phase of the diet, as many of the usual foods are eliminated.

How Healthy is The South Beach Diet for me?

The South Beach Diet does not really harm anyone. However, nutritionists do not believe that this diet will have much lasting success – like all radical low-carb programs. Strict calorie counting is positively avoided. However:

The South Beach Diet does not include an accompanying sports program. But those who want to live healthy in the long run will not be able to avoid exercise.
Since the food is completely restricted in the first two weeks, the danger of ravenous attacks is very high.
Doing without many types of fruit can lead to vitamin deficiency in the long run.
The same applies to dietary fibres: the 14-day abstinence from wholemeal products and legumes such as beans, peas or lentils can lead to digestive disorders.