Without a basic understanding of the underlying principles of the SBD I couldn't have had the success I have had with this WOE. Information is the key to success here!

While some think that the SBD book is confusing and contradictory, I don't think I could have done what I've done without the book. During Phase I, I read it almost daily. As I learned about this WOE, things that didn't make sense, gradually began to become clearer the longer I stuck with the plan. I still re-read portions of the book in order to make sure I'm not creeping back to my old ways of eating.

The SBD book coupled with the Good Fats Good Carbs Guide are essential reading. I use the guide on a daily basis to understand what to eat. Between these 2 books I think I spent a grand total of $22.00 at my local Walmart. Low price to pay for information that has changed my life.

This has been posted many times throughout this forum...if you can't afford the books, this website, http://www.mizfrogspad.com/south_beach_diet.htm (if you can stand the music) contains almost everything in the SBD book.

As you move through learning how to do SBD, search the web...there is a lot of useful information on SBD out there.

And finally, work your way through all of the posts in this SBD forum...there is a lot of useful information to be gained from folks who started out just like you...with questions.

While I think that the SBD is designed so that one doesn't have to be a rocket scientist to understand it, you really need to have some basic knowledge when you start Phase I and continue onward.

I hope the best for everyone just starting with this WOE...arm yourself with knowledge and you will have success.