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Daily Dish
Sweet Treat and Dessert Guidelines
Delicious desserts can be enjoyed on all Phases of the South Beach Diet as long as they meet the principles of the plan. A sugary dessert, such as a piece of decadent chocolate cake or buttery cookie, is an indulgence best saved for a special occasion (like a holiday gathering).
When sugary desserts are going to be on the menu, a smart approach is to eat healthfully throughout the day, so when you're faced with the final course, you can enjoy a small portion without guilt. Marie Almon, nutrition director of the South Beach Diet, offers this tip: "Take three bites and chew each bite slowly. When you savor each morsel, you'll find that three bites are usually enough to satisfy your desire for something sweet."
Another approach, which is acceptable in all Phases of the South Beach Diet, is to satisfy your sweet tooth with an approved Sweet Treat. Some South Beach Diet Online member favorites include no-sugar-added Fudgsicles, sugar-free Popsicles®, sugar-free gelatin, sugar-free sodas and drink mixes, and sugar-free hard candies and chewing gum. Remember to count all sugar-free treats toward the 75- to 100-calorie daily limit on Sweet Treats.
One word of caution: Some sugar-free foods contain slow-digesting sugar alcohols, which provide sweetness and texture with fewer calories. However, these additives (look in the ingredient list for words ending in "ol," such as mannitol and sorbitol) can have a laxative effect. Some people are more sensitive to this than others, so take note of your reaction to foods that contain sugar alcohols. The limit on Sweet Treats should also help reduce any side effects.
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