For the fifth year in a row, the Mediterranean diet placed first in the annual race for best diet according to ratings by US News & World Report.
The Mediterranean diet was followed by a tie between the DASH diet (which stands for dietary approaches to stop hypertension and emphasises reducing salt consumption) and the flexitarian diet which encourages being vegetarian most of the time except for some instances of meat consumption. These three diets reduce or eliminate processed foods whilst also stress the importance of filling a plate with fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, whole grains and seeds.
Managing director of health for US News and World Report Gretel Schueller said that she thinks its important to note that these three diets all offer variety, flexibility and few rules. ‘All the diets that perform well are safe, sensible and backed by sound science. The diet winners also provide adequate calories with a focus on vegetables, fruits and whole grains.’
A panel of 27 experts examined 40 diets and ranked them on 7 categories – how easy it is to follow; how easily people can lose significant weight; how effective the diet is in preventing cardiovascular diseases or diabetes; and the diet’s nutritional completeness.’ The Mediterranean diet was found by numerous studies to reduce the risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, dementia, memory loss, depression and breast cancer. It has also been associated with stronger bones, a healthier heart and longer life. Red meat is used sparingly, usually only to flavour a dish. Whilst eggs, dairy and poultry are eaten in smaller portions than traditional Western diets, with fats other than olive oil are rarely consumed.
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