You have arrived at Phase 2 – congratulations! Now, it’s time to get comfortable with the new rules of the game. So, what additions are there to the food list?
Mmmm… Fruit
The best part about Phase 2 is that you get to add fruit back into your diet, with the exception of very sugary fruits such as pineapple, watermelon and bananas. Low glycemic-index fruits such as apples, oranges and grapes make great, portable snacks.
Yummy Vegetables and Legumes
There were very little restrictions on this in Phase 1. So, you may be a little surprised to see this category. There were a few times that were not on your list. Here you can add back barley, pinto beans, black-eyed peas and carrots.
Hello, Bread
Bread, pasta and rice are back! Of course, you should only have the whole wheat and grain varieties. Make sure to check the ingredients for white flour or enriched flour. Look for multigrain, rye and oat and bran bread, brown rice and whole wheat pasta.
Easy Cereals
Eggs for breakfast may have become a staple during Phase 1. Here is your opportunity to change it up a little. High-fiber cereals with low-fat milk are now permissible. You can also have oatmeal (not instant) with low-fat milk and fruit. Feel like a muffin? Reach for a bran, sugar-free one. Whole-wheat bagels are also allowed.
The Night Cap
If you have missed your night cap, there is cause to celebrate. Although not all alcohol is back, you can now have red and white wine
Sweet Chocolate
Yes, bittersweet and semisweet chocolate is now allowed in moderation. So, make sure to occasionally indulge and avoid feeling deprived.
That’s the updated food list. At this point, you may be wondering how this is going to work. You had such great success on Phase 1 and are a little hesitant to let loose. It’s a valid concern. After all, who wants to spoil a good thing?
The important part of Phase 2 is to add each component back gradually. Don’t indulge in all these items all the time. Monitor your weight loss. If it slows, you may be allowing yourself one too many indulgences. Cut back a little and see what happens. Remember, if you fall off the wagon, you can jump back on Phase 1, if needed.
Another important thing to remember is that moving to Phase 2 is highly recommended, though not required. Staying on Phase 1 is tempting, especially if you have experienced success. But, Phase 1 is not meant to be a long-term meal plan. Moving on to Phase 2 is an important part of learning how to control your weight in the long-term.
So, take the plunge! After a few weeks, Phase 2 will become second nature and the pounds will continue to melt away.
Reggie Dunn is a long time diet enthusiast and follower of the South Beach Diet.
You can find more information on the South Beach Diet [http://www.online-diet-reviews.info/south-beach-diet.html] at [http://www.online-diet-reviews.info/south-beach-diet.html]
