So this is probably completely wrong

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-14-2004
So this is probably completely wrong
2
Sat, 02-19-2005 - 12:41pm

but I would love some feedback.

I've been on the South Beach diet for 11 days now and am just 3 days away from finishing phase one. In all, so far, I'm down 13 lbs and enjoying the progress. Now, rather than simply going to phase 2 and losing the standard .5-2 lbs a week, I want to try and experiment. I want to have a "cheat day" that allows me to have everything I've pretty much been missing (fruit, bread, perhaps even my valentine's gummi bears) and then go back to phase one for 8 days before spring break.

My reason behind this is not only due to the fact that I think I miss carbs terribly, but also due to an article I read on the ketogenic diet. Many lifters and athletes go 5 days low carb, and carb load on the weekends. It evidently throws the body off allows it the help weight loss. Now, I'm neither a lifter or really, an athlete, but since the my weight has begun to level off since the first week, I'm wondering if it's slowing down because my body is getting used to not having carbs. Therefore, perhaps one day with carbs followed by 8 without would allow my body to have those initial weight loss effects...any thoughts? I would love some good feedback. My roommates already don't agree with me, while my mom says, go ahead, you deserve some carbs. Kind of on the fence so you ladies let me know what you think.

Thanks, so for the long post

Jade



(for now)

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-17-2003
Sat, 02-19-2005 - 2:55pm

I could be wrong, but I think the reason you are supposed to do 2 weeks without any carbs is to rid your system of bad carbs. It also helps prevent cravings. I don't see a problem with having a cheat day with fruit, whole grain breads, other items allowed on phase 2, but I wouldn't go overboard. Even doing that I would restrict the amount of carbs you are eating. (IE don't eat 5 servings of bread and 4 servings of fruit, and a candy bar, and coke.) Try it one week and see if it works. You might put this question up on the south beach board. They are more familiar with the diet than I am.

Athletes need more carbs than other people. That may be part of the reason behind that article. I think it is risky if you try to follow that unless you exercise at the same level they do. It is very normal for your weight to slow down after 2 weeks. Most people will lose a lot of weight the first 2 weeks and then it goes to the 1-2 pounds a week. It is not healthy to lose more than that for a long period of time or your body will start to lose muscle rather than fat. It even states that in the book if I recall correctly. It also says to be careful and not stay on phase one too long.

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-31-2004
Sat, 02-19-2005 - 3:52pm

Hi jade :)