Can Phase 1 of the South Beach Diet Be Followed Long Term?

Can Phase 1 of the South Beach Diet Be Followed Long Term? The South Beach weight loss program encourages dieters to follow the plan as written by moving into phase 2 after two weeks. Why Move to the South Beach Diet, Phase 2 Phase 1 of the South Beach Diet is the most restrictive portion of the weight loss program. With additional food choices generally absent on most low carb diet plans, like whole grains, starchy vegetables, and fruit, phase 2 helps the dieter to stick to the plan more easily. In phase 2, when the dieter begins returning some of the carbohydrate foods banned in phase 1, weight loss tends to slow way down. While the South Beach Diet book presents a liberal form of phase 2, with one fruit serving and one grain serving recommended for the first week, most dieters need to return to carbohydrates more slowly than suggested. If weight loss slows way down or stops completely after moving to phase 2, the dieter should scan the phase 2 food list and try a different option. While phase 1 is the foundation of the South Beach Diet, the phase itself is only the starting point from which to build a successful lifestyle. While weight loss on the South Beach Diet is slower than other low carb programs, if weight loss stops completely, the dieter can make different food choices to eliminate problem foods. (accessed July 5, 2010) Agatston, Arthur S., M.D., The South Beach Diet: The Delicious Doctor-designed, Foolproof Plan for Fast and Healthy Weight Loss , Rodale Press, November 2003