I'm a twenty-one year old mom to two boys and have always had trouble with my weight. I sought this book because of the array of convenience foods available with the south beach diet logo that were available at my local grocery store. This book doesn't really mention any of those products and the meal plans that are provided are far from simple.

Due to the extreme amount of low carbohydrates that are recommended for the first two weeks, I was left lethargic. My energy levels were so low I would nap more often than I had ever in my life. I had no motivation to work out or exercise and I pretty much knew this diet was not going to work for me.

For the first two weeks one of the main desserts that are suggested are ricotta cheese with splenda. This made my stomach turn. It seemed like all of the foods even in phase two were bland.

I did lose quite a bit of weight within the first two weeks (15 pounds), but I ended up gaining it all back within a month.

This book is good for people who do not mind being extremely strict, making a lifestyle change, and spending a lot of money. I am just not one of those people.