Overview

• The Mediterranean diet was named the best overall diet for the eighth consecutive year, scoring 4.8 out of 5 in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 rankings.
• This plant-based diet emphasizes whole grains, legumes, vegetables, olive oil, and fatty fish while reducing processed foods, refined sugars, and red meat.
• The DASH diet ranked highest for heart health and blood pressure control, while the Flexitarian diet was recognized for its flexibility in incorporating occasional meat and dairy.
• New categories in the rankings evaluated diets for managing specific health conditions like arthritis, IBS, and fatty liver disease, with personalized approaches emphasized for best results.
• Experts caution against quick-fix or restrictive diets, urging individuals to consider sustainability, personal preferences, and health needs when choosing a diet.