Best Diet Plans of 2008: How the South Beach Diet Worked for Me

I gave birth in 2007 and gained 20 lbs during pregnancy. Within two weeks of giving birth, I lost every single one of those 20 lbs, without even trying! What was my "secret"? Breastfeeding. I suddenly believed I could eat whatever I wanted and not only NOT gain a pound, but lose in the process. Boy was I wrong!

By the time 2008 came around, I already gained those 20 lbs back. How horrible! How could I have lost it so fast and easily yet gain every single one of those pounds back? I was determined to get back to my healthy ways. Healthy Weight in Two Thousand and Eight!

In 2006 I was very successful with the LA Weight Loss program, until they went out of business. During that time I had noticed that the South Beach Diet was very similar in structure to LAWL. Since LAWL was now gone, I decided I should pick up a copy of the South Beach Diet book to look at.

I received a free copy from my doctor's office and read the book in a matter of days, very enthusiastically. I knew this was something I could do! I went grocery shopping and begun Phase I of the program. Actually, it was more of my own version I call Phase I ½ because I breastfeed and need extra calories. So I did Phase I, but included at least two whole grains a day.

Did I lose? Absolutely! I lose 12 lbs in a matter of one week! That is a ridiculous amount of weight to lose and I'm not sure why I lost so much, so quickly. I'm sad to report I've been off and on from the Beach since August and have only maintained my weight. I have not lost any more.

New goal for 2009: Lose 20 lbs! I plan on getting back on Phase I this holiday season as I have a whole month off from school and can cook myself some very healthy and nutritious meals at home.