For the sixth consecutive year, the Mediterranean diet has been named the best overall diet by U.S. News & World Report, earning top honors in the categories of easiest to follow, best plant-based diet, best for heart health, and best diet for diabetes management.
"The Mediterranean diet has stood the test of time because it is sustainable, delicious, and backed by decades of scientific evidence," said nutrition expert Dr. Walter Willett of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
The diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, olive oil, and lean proteins, with limited intake of red meat and processed foods. Studies have consistently shown that following the Mediterranean diet reduces risk of cardiovascular disease.
The runner-up positions were held by the DASH diet for heart health and the flexitarian diet for its balanced approach to plant-based and animal proteins. Weight Watchers ranked highest among commercial diet programs.
"What makes the Mediterranean diet unique is that it is not a temporary fix but a sustainable way of eating that people can maintain for life," said U.S. News contributor Dr. Lisa Young.