sadatx

You're not the first Atkins follower to call it that. I disagree. I mean you might as well call it a sugarbusters clone too. But you obviously have respect for the Atkins Diet and I gotta respect that if it worked for you.

There are some important differences between South Beach and Atkins. First your body does not go into Ketosis on South Beach. You're allowed a wider selection of veggies at first and there's a lower protein intake. It is a lowfat diet. Very low fat. The first phase (okay, now that sounds like Atkins, I'll give you that) only lasts two weeks. Then you're allowed the good carbs: fruits, whole grains, and all of that.

I'm just finishing up the two week first phase. And now I'm probably moving on to Body for Life. I was eating a lot of carbs, and a lot of sugar. And usually had one or two big meals a day. South Beach really broke me of those bad habits (at least so far). I'm eating alot healthier now and my vegetable intake has increased ten-fold. I think the book has some great recipes, which really helped me through it. In fact I'd say the recipes are the highlight.

But I don't think the book is good long term (at least not for me). And I wouldn't reccomend it for that. I would reccomend South Beach over Atkins though.

I did have lower energy a various time (because of calorie restriction I'm sure). I'd say be strict with the diet for the first few days. The if you're having lower energy allow yourself little snacks (on top of the snacks in the diet). Some orange or apple juice here, a piece of whole grain bread there, or a small piece of candy. But you have to be sparse with these. And if you find that they lead you to more carbs, you might just have to go cold turkey for the first phase.

But remember. If you're too strict with any diet, you pprobably won't be on it for long.