Let’s
face it: We all sometimes give in to temptations, especially when it comes to
food. So if you occasionally slip up while following the South Beach Diet, does
it mean you've failed? Not even close! Everyone is bound to have moments of
weakness, and the good news is that you can get back on track easily. The simple fix? If your indulgences
cause you to put on a few pounds or experience cravings, move back to Phase 1
for a little while, or simply cut back on carbs. Once you've lost the added
weight and controlled your cravings, you can pick up where you left off.
If you find yourself having
trouble sticking with your diet on a regular basis, try these tips to avoid temptation:
- Skip
the chip and cookie aisles at the grocery store and focus on healthier foods, like
vegetables, reduced-fat dairy and eggs, lean cuts of beef, pork, lamb, poultry,
and seafood, whole grains and fruits (Phase 2), and healthy fats, such as
extra-virgin olive oil, nuts, and avocado.
- Empty your cupboards and
refrigerator of all the unhealthy foods that trigger your cravings.
- When going out to eat,
don't be tempted by even looking at the dessert menu. Instead, plan on eating a
serving of sugar-free gelatin or a sugar-free Popsicle or Fudgsicle when you
get home.
- Always carry a healthy
snack with you, so when temptations come your way, you can eat something nutritious
to distract yourself. Pack grab-and-go snacks, like a reduced-fat cheese stick
or veggies, like celery, cucumbers, peppers, and grape tomatoes and an
individual container of hummus. Or, prepare your own nut mix: Season a handful
of nuts with some cayenne or cumin for a boost of flavor.
- If someone gives you an
indulgent present, like a box of chocolates or your favorite cookies, don’t
open it. Bring it in to work, or give it to a neighbor or friend.
See all South Beach Diet Tips