While the Atkins Diet is losing its popularity fast, the South Beach Diet is getting more devoted fans around the world.

The South Beach Diet is NOT a traditional low-carb diet plan. It was developed by Miami cardiologist Arthur Agatston in order to help dieters lose weight through "good carbs" and "good fats".

Why "Good Carbs"?

Because when you eat "bad carbs", your body creates what it's called an "insulin resistance" syndrome -- meaning your body cannot properly process body fat or sugar.

Why "Good Fats"?

Because when you eat "bad fats", you only increase your chance of developing heart diseases.

The Three Phases of the South Beach Diet

1. Phase One (2 weeks)

In this phase, avoid high-glycemic foods, such as ice cream, sports drinks, glucose sugar, maltose sugar, baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, chips, donuts, waffles, rice cakes, wafer biscuits, white bread, bagel, baguette, pretzels, rice pasta, instant rice, watermelon, jellybeans, and cornflakes.

As a result, your body will lose its insulin resistance, and begin to use excess body fat. You can expect to lose between 8 and 13 pounds. Individual results may vary.

2. Phase Two (no time limit)

In this phase, try to reintroduce the right carbs slowly, such as fruit and whole-grain breads and pastas. Continue to eat low-glycemic foods, such as multigrain bread, barley, grapefruit, apple, pear, orange, cherries, lettuce, spinach, pepper, green beans, tomatoes, artichokes, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, lentils, soy beans, kidney beans, low fat yoghurt, soy milk, grapefruit juice, and fructose sugar.

There is no time limit for this phase. Just follow it until you reach your weight loss goal.

3. Phase Three

This phase begins when you reach your desired weight. In this phase, include three servings of whole grains and three servings of fruit a day.

Tips

If you want to lose weight with the South Beach Diet, you should eat whole grains, certain vegetables and fruits, along with the good fats, such as olive oil and fish.

Don't forget to choose lean sources of protein. Make sure you always count calories and limit your servings. The most important thing is you should avoid overly refined foods, high fat meats, and saturated fats.