Mediterranean Diet

The South Beach Diet was promoted by a cardiologist of Miami, Dr. Arthur Agatston who believes that a high consumption of rapidly-absorbed carbohydrates also called “bad carbohydrates” creates an “insulin resistance syndrome” not scientifically studied and proved. At the same time that he emphasizes the consumption of “good carbohydrates”, he does the same with the “good fats” (unsaturated and non trans), proved all over the world to be much more healthy and convenient for the heart.

This part of the South Beach Diet could be reasonable, independently of the insulin theories. The problem is that the South Beach Diet considers bad carbohydrates not only the candies or sweets, but also the pasta, cus-cus, bread, etc. These nutrients are the main and “cleaner” combustible for our body.

The South Beach Diet has three phases. In the first one, lasting two weeks, all grain carbohydrates are banned. Dieters are allowed to eat normal-size helpings of meat, fish, vegetables, eggs, cheese, and nuts. During the second phase of the South Beach Diet, lasting the needed time to recover the desired weight, whole grain foods, fruits and dairy products are gradually returned to the diet, but in small amounts. At the third phase of the South Beach Diet, high fiber contents carbohydrates are allowed as well as unsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

As all “low carb diets”, South Beach Diet is unbalanced. It cannot be followed for a long time and what is more, people cannot follow them too long. Dieters are recognized by his worries about the food when they eat in a restaurant or at friend’s homes.

Don’t forget to get medical advice before following the South Beach Diet!