Losing weight is often one of the new year’s resolutions. But deciding which diet to try (and knowing which ones to avoid due to potential health risks) is a process that can discourage even the best-willed people. Fortunately, to help us choose the right type of diet, the American magazine U.S. News and World Report publishes its ranking of the best diets. And the name of the best diet for 2025 has just been revealed.
With the help of more than 30 nutritionists, doctors and epidemiologists who scrutinized the different diets by evaluating their health criteria, the prize of best diet 2025 was awarded (for the 8th consecutive year!) to Mediterranean diet. The one also called the Cretan diet comes at the top of the ranking in all categories among the 30 diets studied.
The best diet for the heart
“The Mediterranean diet is the best diet overall. It is also a top diet for those looking for a heart-healthy diet, a diabetes-friendly diet, or to promote bone and joint health ” underline the experts. “But don’t confuse pseudo Mediterranean menus, which often include too much refined pasta, beef and cheese, with a healthy diet,” they warn.
There is no single Mediterranean diet (Turks eat differently from Italians who eat differently from Greeks…) but they are all based on the same principles:
- Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, olive oil, herbs and spices daily.
- Eat seafood and fish at least twice a week.
- Poultry, eggs, cheese and yogurt are acceptable in moderation.
- Reserve red meat and sweets as occasional treats.
- An occasional glass of red wine is acceptable.
The other two award-winning diets
In second position in this ranking, we find the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), which combats high blood pressure and emphasizes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and low-fat dairy products.
In third position, we find the Flexitarian diet, or semi-vegetarian diet. Those who practice it are vegetarian most of the time, while enjoying a burger or steak on special occasions. The benefit: enjoy the benefits of a vegetarian diet (improved heart health, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and reduced inflammation), without having to completely eliminate meat.
In fourth position comes the Mind diet composed of foods that contribute to good brain health.
The ranking also makes it possible to identify which are the best diets according to this or that health problem and/or objective.
The best diet to lose weight : The WW diet, formerly known as Weight Watchers, gets the top spot. The plan emphasizes not only weight loss, but also healthier eating and regular activity. The Points program, which assigns specific points to foods, with a daily Points budget, is more personalized than in the past.
- The best diet for healthy eating : the Mediterranean diet.
- The best diet for arthritis : the DASH diet.
- The best diet for diabetes : the Mediterranean diet.
- The best diet for bone and joint health : the Mediterranean diet.
- The diet easiest to follow : the Mediterranean diet.
The Mediterranean diet, an essentially “good for health” diet
The Mediterranean diet or Cretan diet is recommended according to numerous studies for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, but also in the prevention of osteoporosis, depression or cognitive decline.
The Mediterranean diet, praised by numerous studies for its health benefits, comes first on the podium in the categories:
- Diets good for general health
- Diets good for bones and joints
- Heart-healthy diets
- Diets good for reducing diabetes
- Easiest diets to follow.
Source: www.topsante.com
