[marina_67]

Hi I am new here. I just started the South Beach Diet today. I wanted to know about what to drink. Why can I not have caffeine? Can I have herbal fruit teas? What do all of you do. I know that water is the best choice but I don't think that I can only drink water. What about sugar free juice mixes?

marina_67

[Sunnybunny]

You actually can have caffeine, but you need to begin to get off of it slowly. Caffeine withdrawl mixed with sugar withdrawl can be very painful.

I am no longer dependent upon caffeine, but will occasionally have an iced tea when eating out or make a pitcher of Crystal Light tea at home when I am in the mood.

I drink lots of water, crystal light (non-caffeinated), and herbal teas.

Hope this helps

[AdiaFaith]

I do drink caffeine, and I don't remember Dr. A saying get off it. Atkins I had to, and I admit I felt better then, but then again, I wasn't working 12 hour days then either.

When I don't drink caffeine, I have Diet Sprite, Crystal Light, and water. My new favorite is Dasani's flavored water. When it's cold, the raspberry is SOO good you can actually taste the fuzz! MMMM....it has really helped me get through the no fruit in Phase I again.

Welcome to the Beach! You may need help getting through the first couple of weeks. Mix it up, try new things, use the recipe section, read the book, and check the FAQs section.

I think that's enough homework for now. Get to it!

[Barb0522]

I drink tea with caffeine in the morning and then switch to decaf hot tea. For some people, caffeine can cause cravings. It doesn't bother me. Just make sure to get your water as well.

And tell me, are you Marina from the July97 list? If so, I am the Barbara from Texas with the son named Brian.