South Beach Diet: What To Know

Overview

The aim:

Weight loss, heart health.

The claim:

Most people lose 8 to 13 pounds within the first two weeks, the company says, though that number could be smaller depending on your start weight. From there on out, you’ll drop 1 to 2 pounds a week.

The theory:

There are good carbs and fats, and there are bad carbs and fats. The key to weight loss is choosing the best of each. That means lots of vegetables, fish, eggs, low-fat dairy, lean protein like chicken and turkey, whole grains, and nuts. South Beach is lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein and healthy fats than the typical American diet.

Balanced Diet

These diets fall within accepted ranges for the amount of protein, carbs, fat and other nutrients they provide.

Pros & Cons

• Yes to snacks and dessert
• No calorie-counting

• Could seem awfully restrictive at first
• Lots of time prepping and cooking meals