[4] Like other fad diets,[5] it may have elements which are generally recognized as sensible, but it promises benefits not backed by supporting evidence or sound science.
[7] It makes no restriction on calorie intake, includes an exercise program, and is based around taking three main meals and two snacks per day.
According to the UK's National Health Service (NHS), the severity of the first stage of the diet may result in the loss of some vitamins, minerals and fiber.
The NHS reports that dietary restrictions during stage one may cause side effects including "bad breath, a dry mouth, tiredness, dizziness, insomnia, nausea, and constipation.
[1][4] Nevertheless, some aspects of the diet correspond with dietary advice that is recognized as sensible:[6] its last two stages are sufficiently nutritious to be considered healthy.
Unwilling to prescribe the Atkins approach to patients with cardiac issues due to the diet's allowance of saturated fat and limitation of carbohydrates containing fiber and other nutrients, Agatston referenced medical research to build an eating plan that categorized fats and carbohydrates as good or bad and emphasized lean protein and fiber.
[17] The plan grew in popularity as a method of weight loss as Agatston reported the results at conferences and patients distributed photocopies outlining the diet throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s.
[20] In 2008, Agatston published The South Beach Diet Supercharged, written with Joseph Signorile, a professor of exercise physiology; it included an interval training program.
"[21] SBD Enterprises LLC, of which Agatston is a part owner,[22] owns the "South Beach Diet" trademark.