Weight Loss & Diet Plans

South Beach Diet Is Hot; Here's Why

continued...

In the U.S., a carbohydrate-rich diet translates into lots of highly processed, low-fiber carbohydrates.

"The food we eat has often already been digested in the factory," says Agatston. "Eating white bread is like eating table sugar."

Though Moore agrees that the South Beach diet can be healthy, she reiterates the need for dieters to see a dietitian before trying it.

"The skill of a dietitian is to work within the parameters of what an individual needs," she says. "It's fine to use this diet for weight loss, but no diet fits everybody. For that reason, you need to work with someone to make sure the general diet is tailored to your particular body."

John Casey is a freelance writer who lives in New York City.

Published May 19, 2003.