A renowned cardiologist discusses the importance of understanding the glycemic index values of foods and presents a weight-loss program that includes meal plans and recipes. "Dr. Agatston is a noted cardiologist who's made many contributions, but The South Beach Diet may be his best. Importantly, this is not 'another diet book.' This is a book about health and well-being. Dr. Agatston does an outstanding job of explaining the importance of the types of food we eat and its impact on preventing illnesses, such as coronary heart disease and diabetes. Not only will you feel better if you follow his diet, but you will look and live better." --Randolph P. Martin, M.D., director of noninvasive cardiology at Emory University Hospital in AtlantaWhen renowned cardiologist Arthur Agatston, M.D., set out to develop a safe diet for his chronically overweight heart patients, he didn't expect to become a media star in South Florida. But news of his patients' dramatic successes soon spread far beyond the confines of his practice. Strangers started calling to ask for a copy of the diet, and local news began featuring stories of its popularity. Soon, the South Beach Diet was a bona fide craze in Miami.And no wonder. South Beach dieters lose 8 to 13 pounds in the first 2 weeks without feeling hungry. Dr. Agatston's plan allows you to eat the foods you love--meat and fish, cheese, healthy oils and nuts, vegetables, and the right carbohydrates and sweets. There's no mandatory exercise, and best of all, you'll lose that stubborn belly fat first. Part One: Understanding the South Beach Diet Losing Weight, Gaining Life 3(3) Good Carbs, Bad Carbs 6(11) A Brief History of Popular 17(8) A Day in the Life 25(7) Good Fats, Bad Fats 32(9) Hello, Bread 41(11) It's Not Just What You Eat, It's How You Eat It 52(9) How Eating Makes You Hungry 61(14) Is It Diabetes Yet? 75 How to Eat in a Restaurant 85 3(88) Back to Cardiology 91(9) Why Do People Occasionally Fail on This Diet? 100(11) Part Two: Meal Plans Recipes Phase One Meal Plan 111(17) Phase One Recipes 128(55) Phase Two Meal Plan 183(17) Phase Two Recipes 200(43) Phase Three Meal Plan 243(15) Phase Three Recipes 258(37) Credits 295(1) Index 296