I'd really recommend the newer South Beach supercharged book, as it explains more about what and how much to eat than the original. There have also been some changes. For instance two fat servings a day is now recommended (with specified amount e.g. tbsp of olive oil or 1/3 avocado). Pulses aren't limited, they just recommend a serving size and say go back for more if you want it. Cheese servings limited to 2 a day, nuts/seeds to one.
Also, Dr A is now very clear that he doens't want people to avoid carbs and go into ketosis (he has more detailed advice updates through his website every day). So he encourages having enough dairy and legumes in phase 1. He also really emphasises plenty of vegetables with every meal. And experimenting with the rules to see what works for you. I've been having 2 servings of nuts/seeds a day and that seems to be fine for me. He seems very wise.