The South Beach Diet was developed by Dr. Arthur Agatston, a cardiologist, and Marie Almon, a dietitian. Originally meant to lower the risk for heart disease, it became popular as a way to lose weight. This diet plan basically recommends replacing carbohydrates and fats that are considered “bad” with good ones. It consists of three phases. The first lasts two weeks and eliminates processed carbohydrates, sugars, fruits, and those vegetables with a high glycemic index. The second phase re-introduces most of these foods, and the dieter stays in this phase as long as he wants to keep losing weight. The third phase is for maintenance and should be followed indefinitely.