Caffeine and the South Beach Diet

It is true that one of the major effects of caffeine is that it causes a rush of insulin but a recent study shows that people who drink more coffee are less susceptible to diabetes. However, caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee or caffeinated sugarfree sodas are fine on the South Beach Diet - as long as you do not surpass the limit of one cup a day.

Use caffeine in moderation because:

* Caffeine has addictive effects on the brain, as well as the kidneys.

* It has diuretic properties, and is a dehydrating agent.

* Caffeine stimulates the pancreas to produce insulin, which can lead to unhealthy cravings. That is why during South Beach Diet Phase 1 it is forbidden. Still, the effect is small, so, for the rest of the diet, you can enjoy 1 morning cup and then switch to decaf.

* Caffeine-containing sodas can cause a gain in weight due to the fact that the sensation of thirst induced by caffeine is often confused with hunger.

Although an appetite stimulant, South Beach Diet allows you to eat as much as you want, so you can enjoy your cup of coffee. Moreover, coffee can raise your metabolism, which is a plus for the diet. Of course, no sugar added, use artificial sweetener instead.