1. It Was Created by a Medical Doctor

Unlike some fad diets, which are started by celebrities or common folk, like you and me, the South Beach Diet was developed and perfected by a medical doctor. Of course, that doesn't mean it's perfect for everyone, but it's a great indication that at least it's not something crazy, like the egg-only diet or the trampoline diet.

2. It's Similar to the Atkins Diet

In some ways, the South Beach Diet is considered to be similar to the Atkins Diet. It's not exactly the same, but it's worth noting that both were developed by a doctor, both stress limiting a particular sort of item, and both are wildly popular.

3. It Focuses on Fats

Here's where the South Beach and Atkins diets differ wildly: the South Beach diet basically bans unhealthy fats, but encourages so-called healthy fats, like those found in olive oil.

4. It is Still about the Carbs, Too...

While the Atkins Diet is all about restricting carbs, the South Beach Diet looks at carbs from sugars, and targets removing (or strictly limiting) the carbs/sugars that are high on the glycemic index (like rice and potatoes).

5. The First 2 Weeks Are Key

Like the Atkins Diet, the South Beach Diet has a very strict “induction” phase during the first two weeks of the diet, which are key to your success. It's during this initial phase that the most distinct changes to your diet are the most evident... and severe, if you're a fan of the potato or rice, or alcohol.

6. You Won't Go Hungry

If you're worried about being hungry, then the South Beach Diet may be a great option for you. Why? Because snacking (actually, just eating five small meals a day) is part of the plan. Your portions are small, but you're eating five meals a day, so yo won't go hungry.

7. If You Keep up the Lifestyle, It Can Work!

Once you reach your goal weight, there's a whole phase of the South Beach Diet to help you maintain your weight. This is a “lifestyle” diet, and one that's easy to follow, one that teaches you how to eat healthfully for the rest of your life.

These are just a few of the interesting things to know about the South Beach Diet. I'm sure there are so many more things your nutritionist or doctor can tell you, too, to figure out if it's the right diet for you! Have you tried the South Beach Diet? What did you think? Please share!

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