How Long Can I Stay on Phase 1 of South Beach?

Although you may stay on Phase 1 a bit longer than 2 weeks, it's best for most people to move to Phase 2.

Extending Phase 1

Although Phase 1 is only meant to last for the first two weeks, if you have a lot of weight to lose or are still having cravings after the two-week period, it's permissible to stay on Phase 1 for up to a month. You may return to Phase 1 later if needed.

Side Effects

Extending Phase 1 of the South Beach diet may lower your metabolism and cause yo-yo dieting. Phase 1 is intended to help assuage cravings, and the bulk of weight loss will happen in phases 2 and 3. Women who are nursing and children should skip Phase 1 entirely.

Bottom Line

According to Dr. Agatston, "As long as it is going slowly and you are comfortable on South Beach Diet Phase 1, it is acceptable to prolong it." However, he says most people should move on after two weeks.

References

• SouthBeachDiet.com: Ask Dr. Agatston--Phase 1 Forever?
• Prevention.com: South Beach Diet Phase 1
• Schweinshaupt Walk-in & Family Care: South Beach Diet Phase 1