South Beach Diet and Constipation – 3 Simple Things You Can Do

If you’re on the South Beach Diet and constipation has become a problem for you, you aren’t alone. Many people on the South Beach Diet experience occasional constipation, but there are many ways to alleviate the discomfort and stay on track with your weight loss.

Does the South Beach Diet and Constipation Go Together?

Constipation sometimes bothers people when they first begin the South Beach Diet because there is a significant change in what and how you’re eating. The diet is usually lower in carbohydrates than an individual’s usual eating habits, which means more protein and fewer whole grains and fruits. Since the majority of fiber often comes from grains and fruits, irregularity is a natural side effect.

Some dieters may eat more cheese than usual on the South Beach Diet because cheese is one of the dairy foods that are allowed on the diet. Because it’s full of flavor and not usually allowed on many other weight loss programs, some people may overindulge in cheese, which can cause you to feel constipated.

Keeping the South Beach Diet and Constipation Separate

There are three simple things you can do to avoid being constipated while you’re on the South Beach Diet – practice moderation, increase your fiber intake, and drink plenty of fluids, especially water.

• Moderation is key to your comfort if your constipation is linked to too much of something – such as cheese – or not enough of something – such as caffeine. If you suspect cheese may be the culprit, try not eating it for a few days, then add it back into your diet as an occasional treat in small amounts. If you’re a caffeine junkie and have cut it out of your diet completely, you may want to add one or two cups of coffee or a glass of iced tea back into your routine. Small amounts are fine while on the South Beach Diet, just don’t overdo it.
• Adding fiber to your diet is also important if you experience constipation, but it can be difficult to do, particularly during South Beach Diet Phase 1, when you can’t eat any fruits or carbohydrates. Dr. Agatston, the creator of the plan, suggests taking a teaspoon of a fiber laxative rich in psyllium, such as Metamucil or Benefiber before each meal during Phase 1. Be sure you take it with a full glass of water, and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Don’t use any supplements containing harsh chemical laxatives, as these can rebound on you over time and don’t help your digestive tract.
• Exercise can help you get rid of constipation as well. Taking a brisk walk or doing some cardio exercise will not only help you get in shape and enhance your weight loss, it will get the digestive muscles moving and improve regularity.

If you’ve been considering the South Beach Diet and constipation was one of the reasons you haven’t started yet, take heart. The two aren’t always linked, and you can easily prevent getting constipated with the suggestions made above.

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