Mediterranean Diet Vs South Beach Diets - Which One Works Best?

Last updated on August 11, 2022, at 08:48 am

The Mediterranean vs South Beach (diets)

Are you looking for a way to get fit without having to count calories or follow strict meal plans? If yes, then you should consider starting a Mediterranean Diet. This type of diet focuses on whole foods and emphasizes fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, beans, and grains.

 The Mediterranean Diet has been linked to lower rates of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity. In addition, it promotes overall well-being and longevity.

This diet was developed over 50 years ago by Dr. Ancel Keys, who studied the health habits of residents living along the coast of Italy. He found that they had low rates of cardiovascular diseases and other chronic illnesses compared to Americans at the time.

How the Diets are Alike How They Differ Conclusion

Good health and longevity interest people of all ages from around the world. As a result, the weight loss and fitness industries have been booming for years. There are so many diets that those seeking help with their weight loss or health needs don't know where to turn. Two diets that have become extremely popular recently are the Mediterranean Diet and the South Beach Diet.

Here's a detailed comparison of both diets.

Mediterranean Diet Explained

The Mediterranean Diet is often called "The Healthiest Diet in the World" because of its healthy weight loss benefits. Just as the name implies, the Mediterranean Diet has been enjoyed by people who live in the Mediterranean region, particularly Italy and Greece, for thousands of years and is now being adopted by many Americans and others around the world.

Mediterranean diet sample menu

It is a diet low in saturated fat with healthy mono-unsaturated fats being provided through fish, nuts, and olive oil. It features foods such as dried fruits, vegetables, whole grains, small portions of meat such as salmon, turkey, lamb, and tuna, and a small amount of wine. The Mediterranean Diet is known for its many benefits such as helping in the prevention of gallstones, breast cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other diseases.

Breakfast for Mediterranean diet (sample)

Mediterranean Lentil Salad: At first glance, this might not look like a morning meal. But favorites like avocado, feta, spinach, and raisins lend a distinct breakfast flavor profile. The lentils will keep cravings at bay, too.

South Beach Diet Explained

South Beach Diet is known to be very effective in helping people lose weight. However, some people say that it has side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. Is it really safe or should I try another plan instead?

The South Beach Diet was developed by Dr. Arthur Agatston, who also created the Zone Diet. This diet focuses on limiting carbohydrates and increasing protein intake.

 

This diet is low in carbs and high in fat. It helps people shed pounds because they eat fewer calories than usual. However, it does require a strict regimen. If you want to follow the South Beach Diet, you'll need to limit your carbohydrate intake to less than 50 grams per day.

Phase 1 of the South beach diet

This two-week phase is designed to eliminate cravings for foods high in sugar and refined starches to jump-start weight loss. You cut out almost all carbohydrates from your diet, including pasta, rice, bread, and fruit. You can't drink fruit juice or any alcohol. You focus on eating lean protein, such as seafood, skinless poultry, lean beef, and soy products. You can also eat high-fiber vegetables, low-fat dairy, and foods with healthy, unsaturated fats, including avocados, nuts, and seeds.

Phase 2 of the South beach diet

This is a long-term weight-loss phase. You begin adding back some of the foods that were prohibited in phase 1, such as whole-grain bread, whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, fruits, and more vegetables. You stay in this phase until you reach your goal weight.

Recipes for south beach diet

One of the best sites to find recipes: https://www.chefdehome.com/meals/90069/30-days-of-south-beach-diet

How the Diets are Alike

The similarities between these two diets include eating restaurant-quality recipes and promoting healthy monounsaturated fats. Both diets are low in unhealthy saturated fats. Unhealthy fats are found in cheese and meat. Both diets promote healthy foods. Both provide an avenue for fast weight loss with a plan for lifetime maintenance.

How They Differ

In the Mediterranean Diet, alcohol (especially wine) is allowed in moderation. It is prohibited in the first phase of the South Beach Diet. 

The Mediterranean Diet is high in fiber while the South Beach Diet is low in fiber during its initial phase portion control is the main focus of the Mediterranean Diet while the South Beach Diet restricts "what" is eaten by prohibiting certain fruits and vegetables. 

Another major difference is that those who adopt the Mediterranean Diet may order foods, dressings, and seasonings online for their cooking needs. The South Beach Diet does not offer products such as these.

Conclusion

The South Beach Diet has only been around for a few years while the Mediterranean Diet has been around for thousands of years. Studies have shown that those eating a Mediterranean Diet have less risk of major diseases and can even increase longevity.

For the fourth year in a row, the Mediterranean diet ranked first in overall best diets, according to U.S. News & World Report’s annual list.

In this comparison, we see that both diets offer health and weight loss benefits. However, the Mediterranean Diet appears to be better for long-term good health and has fared well in many studies.

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