The South Beach diet is a diet suitable for anyone who wants to lose weight and improve health. But it is especially perfect for heart patients who need to lose anywhere from 5 to 100 lbs. and maintain weight.

The eating plan helps to improve cholesterol and insulin levels. The weight loss and the physiological changes to the body by the more healthy diet will have a long term benefit to the cardiovascular system.


How the South Beach Diet Works:

The South Beach diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and doesn't omit any major food groups.

During the first phase of the diet which lasts 2 weeks, normal sized portions of meat, vegetables, nuts, cheese, eggs and a salad are eaten. Coffee and tea are also allowed.

Fruit, bread, rice, potatoes, pasta, baked goods, sugar, ice cream, cookies, cake, alcoholic drinks and whole grains are not allowed during this first phase. The high carbohydrate levels of these foods raise insulin levels causing the body to crave more food. At the end of the first phase the cravings for these foods will be lessened or entirely eliminated because the insulin and hormone levels of the body have been properly regulated.

At the end of the 2 weeks, most dieters have lost between 8 and 13 pounds.

During the second phase of the South Beach Diet, the individual starts to reintroduce the banned foods - in particular the whole grain breads. Potatoes, rice, pasta, even chocolate can now be eaten, but with more careful selection. This second phase is followed until the desired weight is achieved.

The third phase of the South Beach diet is maintenance. After the desired weight is met, the individual continues to eat the healthy diet.

If the individual starts to gain weight the diet may be safely started again.

Online there are daily tips, recipes, a weight tracker, meal planners, shopping list generators and a diary.

Message boards are available to keep in touch with other dieters and a Question and Answer board with Dr. Agatston.