The Mediterranean diet ranks highest overall on U.S. News and World Report’s list of the Best Diets of 2025, excelling in multiple categories.
The Mediterranean diet continues to reign as the leading choice for healthy eating, earning top honors in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Diets of 2025.
The 15th annual edition of this list marks a major change in the publication’s approach, from ranking diets in a single list to more individualized evaluations based on their effectiveness for specific health challenges. moved to the system.
Modern methodologies reflect consumers’ evolving priorities, emphasizing diverse health needs beyond simple weight loss.
“Best Diets’ updated rating system reflects the diverse needs and goals of individuals, considering factors beyond weight loss,” said Gretel Schuler, health editor at U.S. News & World Report. said.
The Mediterranean diet received the highest overall rating, receiving a score of 4.8 out of 5. It also excelled in multiple categories, including diabetes, mental health, and the best diet for fatty liver disease.
Known for its emphasis on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, olive oil, and lean proteins, “this dietary concept can be adapted to almost any cuisine, from Indian to Chinese to South American.” said Schuler.
Schuler noted that this year’s list shifts focus to “food as medicine,” consistent with growing evidence that diet can play an important role in disease prevention and control. .
“This is not a replacement for talking to your doctor or dietitian,” she said. “But food plays a very important role in disease management and prevention.”
The Best Diets of 2025 evaluated 38 meal plans across 21 categories, including 12 new additions such as the best diets for brain health, arthritis, and menopause.
The DASH diet (4.6), flexitarian diet (4.5), and MIND diet (4.4) also received the highest ratings among overall diets.
For specific health needs, diets like the low FODMAP method are excellent for irritable bowel syndrome, and Dr. Andrew Weil’s anti-inflammatory diet was highly praised for arthritis and inflammation.
The interactive quiz launched alongside the Best Diets of 2025 list aims to help individuals find the best option based on their health goals and lifestyle preferences.
A U.S. News panel of 43 experts, including physicians, registered dietitians, and public health experts, evaluated the diets. Their expertise spans areas such as cardiology, women’s health, and sports nutrition, and they aim to take a comprehensive, science-backed approach.
Not sure which diet best suits your healthy eating goals or medical challenges? Our interactive quiz charts your goals and lifestyle preferences and provides guidance on which diets are best suited to your specific needs. Provide recommendations.
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