The South Beach Diet Plan in a Nutshell

There are plenty of different diet plans available to help us lose weight -- there are low-protein diets and high protein diets, low-carb diets and high-carb diets, low-fat diets and high-fat diet, and several variations of all of the above. Too often, with all of these choices and seemingly contradictory dieting instructions, dieters can end up getting frustrated and discouraged.

The South Beach Diet, however, is not based on a single gimmicky weight-loss principal -- it teaches the dieter to choose the amount, and type, of carbs and fats that will help them to lose weight. A common problem for certain diet plans is that they allow for bad carbs and fats to be consumed. This can leave the dieter feeling hungry and even lethargic which may lead to weight gain. However, the South Beach Diet Plan teaches you how to choose foods that allow you to feel full, and give you more energy at the same time. If you eat right, you could lose up to 10 pounds in two weeks. If the South Beach diet plan is followed, quick weight loss is something that is promised as a part of this weight-loss program.

The South Beach Diet, which was created by cardiologist Dr. Arthur Agatson, will help you to lose weight. It has three phases - the first two being for a specific length of time, and the third for a lifetime of good, healthy eating and safe weight loss. This diet plan allows for three normal meals a day, two snacks, and a variety of foods. Which, this makes the South Beach Diet an excellent choice for a diet program -- one that shows you which foods to eat, how to maintain healthy portions, and an overall program that does not leave the dieter unsatisfied.

Phase One

For phase one, the portions are normal, but there are no carbs allowed during this period. As a strict introductory phase, it should be followed for two weeks. The emphasis is on lean meats and low-glycemic-index veggies, and during this time the weight will come off fairly quickly.

Phase Two

In the second phase, more of the previously forbidden foods are gradually introduced, and the weight loss should be from one-to-two pounds per week. Ideally, one should remain on this phase until the desired amount of weight has been shed.

Phase Three

This is the lifetime phase, and it is for maintenance and healthy eating and living. Sometimes people will see their weight climbing upward when they stop following phase two. That's when they must go back to phase one. But, the diet is so varied that this really does not need to happen. Overall, the South Beach Diet is geared to all lifestyles and budgets, and is not at all difficult to comply with.

While the South Beach Diet plan may be an excellent choice for those who have decided to lose weight, as with all diets, one should consult a health care professional before embarking on any new weight reduction program.

To get more information and tips on anything health and fitness related fittedforlife.com/diets.php diets, supplements, weight training etc., please visit my website at fittedforlife.com fittedforlife.com