Created by Arthur Agatston, M.D. the South Beach Diet focuses on removing bad carbohydrates and fats from the diet and replacing them with good carbohydrates and fats. The subject of good and bad carbohydrates and fats might seem unusual to the novice, however the South Beach Diet is based upon these principles. The belief is that when you focus on good fats and good carbs you will find your body becoming healthier resist hunger, and lose weight in a sensible manner. Dr. Agatston is a cardiologist who developed the diet for use with his heart patients.
The premise is that high glycemic carbohydrates, such as potatoes, bread, rice, cereal, pasta, sugar, and fruit raise insulin levels and the body subsequently has a difficult time digesting and processing these carbohydrates. They are then converted to fat, and also cause blood levels to surge then drop, creating cravings and hunger pangs. The condition is referred to as Insulin Resistance Syndrome. When these carbohydrates are removed from the diet, and are then replaced with low glycemic, or low sugar, carbohydrates, the body can process and digest carbs with ease. Blood sugar levels become normal, food cravings and hunger pangs begin to stabilize and weight is lost. Additionally, Dr. Agatston believes that when blood levels begin to drop to normal levels, that the risk for developing Diabetes drops as well.
The South Beach Diet advocates more than just changing the fats and carbohydrates in your diet. They approach the diet as a way of life and encourage people to exercise more, addressing health from all levels. Focusing on portion control is also a tool used to help teach self-control. Once hunger pangs and cravings subside, after blood sugar levels become normalized, many people find that the diet is satisfying and an easy plan to adhere to for the rest of their lives.
Three phases comprise the South Beach Diet. These are Phase 1, where you stay on the phase for two weeks and stabilize blood sugar levels. The result is that within two weeks you will have begun to lose weight and cravings will cease. Phase 2 focuses on losing weight. On this level, you’ll begin to add back healthy carbohydrates and will see your health begin to improve. The final phase is Phase 3 and this phase is designed for life maintenance. You will learn how to eat, and even enjoy special treats, without losing control of your diet. Many people have found great success with the South Beach Diet, making it one of the most popular diets available.