The South Beach Diet was created by the cardiologist, Dr. Agatston. Originally Dr. Agatston created the South Beach Diet for his heart patients. His aim was to improve the patient’s heart health while helping the patient to lose significant amounts of weight. Dr. Agatston states the South Beach Diet is not a low fat or low carb diet but focuses more on the right kinds of fats and carbs. The South Beach Diet is based on the Glycemic Index. The South Beach Diet also encourages the incorporation of healthy fats from monounsaturated sources like olive oil.

What is the difference between the South Beach Diet and the Atkins Diet? The difference between these two diets is the type of fat. The South Beach Diet recommends a diet low in saturated fats while emphasizing the monounsaturated fat. The South Beach Diet does not look at the grams of a carb but more so the sugars within the carb. The Atkins diet looks at carb grams instead of carb sugars.

Phase II requires the reintroduction of low Glycemic Index carbohydrates that include granary bread, wholegrain cereals, pasta, low fat milk, and most fruits. You are to follow Phase II of the South Beach Diet until you reach your ideal weight. Phase III allows the reintroduction of a wide variety of foods aimed at keeping your weight maintained.

What are the cons of the South Beach Diet? Phase I of the South Beach Diet requires serious willpower because of the carbohydrate restriction. During this time, you may feel weak and tired as the body adjusts to the change in your diet. Also during this time you will not be eating the required amount of fruits and vegetables causing you to lack essential vitamins and minerals that are found in fruits and vegetables. A few carbohydrate rich foods contain good sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals which you will also be lacking at this time.

Choosing a diet that is right for you is very difficult. The diet that you choose should be a diet that you can consider following for the rest of your life, if you plan to maintain your weight loss. If you choose to follow the South Beach Diet, you should incorporate a great liquid vitamin supplement to bridge the nutritional gap. You need to realize that weight loss can be achieved without following a fad diet. A diet that is well planned with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, low fat milk, and lean meats along with regular exercise will go further in health than any fad diet.