This diet is similar to the Atkins diet although certainly not as extreme. It is a low carbohydrate diet but advocates eating healthy portions of salad and fruit. The South Beach Diet restricts saturated fat but focuses on healthy fats like olive oil unlike Atkins which makes it a bit healthier.

According to the South Beach book by Dr. Agatston, you should never be hungry on this diet, however by following the suggested meal plans you may well find yourself feeling hungry (I did). The plans work out at about 1200 - 1500 calories a day - again if you eat this many calories it won't matter whether you are doing low fat, high carb, high protein or whatever, you are guaranteed to lose weight.

This diet consists of three phases with the first being the most restrictive.

Phase I -2 weeks designed to resolve insulin resistance and to get rid of unhealthy cravings. No bad carbs allowed eg. white bread, cakes, cookies, chips etc. [well that's a real surprise, you mean I have to give up cakes, chips and cookies?].

Phase II - until you hit your target weight. Gradually reintroduce certain healthy carbs - fruit, granary bread, brown rice, wholmeal pasta, sweet potatoes.

Phase III is the maintenance phase.

Opinion - this diet is not as bad as many others, easier than Atkins and you will lose weight if you stick to it. However, and this goes for all diets, you would probably be better off just eating healthy balanced meals. By eating healthily and moderately you will lose just as much weight and won't feel under pressure to stick to unnatural rules.

Sample Menu Phase I

Tomato Juice
I egg
2 Slices Lean Bacon
Decaf Tea or Coffee

Slice Turkey

Chopped Salad with Tuna
Sugar Free Jello

Celery with soft ligh cheese

Chicken Breast - baked
Roasted Aubergine and peppers
Tossed salad
2 Tablespoons of Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Mocha Ricotta Creme.

Sample Menu Phase II

Fresh Strawberries
Oatmeal with low fat milk
Decaf coffee or tea.

1 hard boiled egg

Mediterranean Chicken Salad

Fresh Pear with ligh cheese

Salmon Fillet
Vegetable Medley
Salad
Olive Oil and Vinegar dressing
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries