South Beach Diet Pros & Cons

The South Beach Diet, like any other eating plan, seems to work for some people as a weight loss strategy while it drives other people right to the cookie jar, overwhelmed with frustration and hunger. Read some of the pros and cons of this diet to see if it is right for you.

History

The South Beach eating plan was developed by a doctor to reduce cardiovascular disease in his patients. If you are at risk for cardiovascular disease, this is a big pro for following the plan.

Time Frame

The South Beach Diet is separated into three phases. The first and most limiting phase lasts for two weeks. The second phase is developed for continuing weight loss and lasts as long as you would like to be losing weight. The third phase is designed to maintain your weight. These distinct phases may help some feel organized while it may make others feel too limited. It is up to you to decide whether the time frame is a pro or a con.

Features

The South Beach Diet severely limits carbohydrates, saturated fat and dairy products. If you consume these foods in moderate amounts for your current lifestyle to give you energy throughout the day, limiting their consumption with the South Beach Diet will be a huge con.

Considerations

The South Beach Diet gives a lot of individual freedom in deciding what to eat from the list of acceptable foods. If you enjoy taking ownership of your eating plan, this will be a pro. If you need more structure in your diet plan, this may be a con.

Potential

The South Beach Diet is not a dangerous or nonsensical eating plan. If the eating plan works for your body type and lifestyle, following the diet will result in weight loss and increased energy. This is a huge pro.

Lifestyle

The South Beach Diet, unlike other high protein diets, offers a lot of vegetarian-friendly eating ideas. If you abstain from eating meat, this is a pro.