Phase 1 of the South Beach Diet

Phase Out Bad Carbs and Fats
The first 14 days of the South Beach Diet are called Phase 1. It is often referred to as the "strict" part of the plan. This is because Phase 1 includes the most stringent rules about what you cannot eat.

It is important that you follow the guidelines for Phase 1 to a "T". There is no middle ground: If a food is on the Foods to Avoid list -- even if it is a highly nutritious or low-fat food -- you cannot eat it. You will be building all of your meals around a selection of nutritious foods (prepared in a healthy way) that have a low GI.

Why So Strict?
Dr. Agatston says the purpose of Phase 1 is to relieve you of cravings for sugar and starches. As an added benefit, you'll also achieve a significant amount of weight loss in a fairly short amount of time. It is possible to lose up to 14 pounds upon completing these initial two weeks of the diet. In particular, belly fat will most likely be noticeably reduced after Phase 1.

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(Please note: In order to correctly follow The South Beach Diet, you will need to read The South Beach Diet: The Delicious, Doctor-Designed, Foolproof Plan for Fast and Healthy Weight Loss, which is also available on CD.

You may also find the companion food guide helpful.)

South Beach Diet 101