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Surviving the First Phase of the South Beach Diet

Many people have the notion that the Atkins diet and the South Beach Diet are almost the same because they both advocate eating low-carbohydrate foods. The truth is that the South Beach Diet is similar to the Atkins diet only during the first phase of the South Beach Diet.


Many books and resources have come out containing recipes that follow your South Beach Diet meal plan. SB Diet consists of 3 phases that are geared to break your normal eating habits without feeling deprived. By strictly following this plan, you will achieve your target weight.

The first phase of the diet will be your starting point towards healthier eating habits. Some may find it quite grueling because you will be drastically reducing the amount of carbohydrates you consume. You will be required to eliminate certain foods for 2 weeks or 14 days. Other diets will require you to count calories or downsize food portions, but the SB Diet strongly advises you to stick to your normal food portions (i.e. three meals per day, with snacks in between).
The difference between your meals before and the meals in the SB Diet is that you will be eating more lean meats like beef, fish, and chicken. To compliment your meal, you can also indulge in nuts, eggs, vegetables, and cheese. You can eat these as much as you want until you feel full. You are also advised to drink plenty of water.

You will no longer be allowed to eat potatoes, bread, rice, baked pastries, and pasts, as well as sweets like cakes, candies, cookies, and ice cream.

Here is a quick meal guide for your reference during Phase 1:

Breakfast
You don’t have to limit your protein consumption, but make sure that you eat only the allowed meat as enumerated above. Specific food types that you can consume include tenderloin pork, lean cuts of beef, chicken breast, and low-fat cheese. Some vegetables shouldn’t be consumed as well; make sure to check the list contained in your SB resources. Phase 1 will also require you to avoid milk, fruits, and starches. However, you can use very little amounts of fat – only 1 teaspoon of oil or mayonnaise should be present during the entire meal.

Lunch and Dinner
You can also eat as much protein as you like. You will also be allowed to eat at least 2 cups of vegetables per meal. Fruits, starches, and milk are still not allowed, but at least you can consume up to 1 tablespoon of oil or mayonnaise in each meal.

Snacks
You will be required to take light snacks in between meals. Nuts and other choice items found in your food list will suffice.

It may seem hard at first, especially if you’re used to including rice, potatoes, bread, or pasta in your meals. But this will only last for two weeks. After that, you will feel healthier, and definitely thinner.
 
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