South Beach Phase 1 Diet

The South Beach Diet is a popular weight loss plan. The diet plan stresses the importance of eating the right combinations of foods for optimal weight loss. The diet has three phases; the first phase will be explored here.

Significance

• The first phase of the South Beach diet is an elimination phase where you cut out all bread, rice, potatoes, pasta, baked goods, fruit and sugar. This elimination is only temporary and is meant to jump-start your diet.

Time Frame

• The first phase lasts for two weeks. Although this first phase can be difficult, dieters are encouraged by looking forward to the second phase during which certain foods are allowed back into their diet.

Acceptable Foods

• The first phase alllows normal amounts of lean beef, chicken, turkey and fish. Lots of vegetables are also included, as are eggs, low-fat cheeses, nuts and green salads using only 100 percent olive oil as dressing.

How Much Food

• Three meals a day plus two snacks are allowed in this initial phase. Coffee and tea is unlimited, and drinking more water is recommended.

Expected Weight Loss

• During the first phase, dieters report a weight loss of between 8 and 13 lbs.

Calories and Portion Control

• The first phase is flexible and does not include calorie counting or portion control.