As we step into the New Year with resolutions to enhance our health, U.S. News & World Report has released its annual rankings of the best diets for 2025. With an emphasis on various health goals—from weight loss to managing chronic conditions—the rankings provide guidance on the best eating patterns for different needs. This year, the Mediterranean diet reigns supreme, securing its position as the top diet for overall health, diabetes, cholesterol, gut health, and more.
The Mediterranean diet dominates the rankings
In 2025, the Mediterranean diet continues to be the most recommended eating plan, not only for general health but also for specific conditions like arthritis, high cholesterol, and mental health. It has retained the top spot for the eighth consecutive year.
In its ranking process, U.S. News & World Report evaluated 38 different diets through the lens of 21 health objectives, guided by input from a panel of 69 experts including doctors, dietitians, and researchers. This comprehensive evaluation covers both well-known diets, such as the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet, alongside newer and more specialized options like the gluten-free diet and the Whole30 elimination program.
According to Dr. Maya Vadiveloo, a nutrition expert at the University of Rhode Island, the Mediterranean diet’s enduring success is no surprise. She explains, “With the exception of some people with very specific medical conditions or allergies, almost anyone can follow a Mediterranean diet and adapt it to their personal and cultural food preferences.”
This flexibility and adaptability make it one of the easiest diets to follow, contributing to its long-standing popularity. The diet emphasizes whole fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like olive oil. It also encourages moderation with red meat, alcohol, and processed foods, aligning with the goals of numerous other top-ranking diets.
Best diets for specific health needs
For those managing particular health concerns, U.S. News has categorized diets based on their effectiveness for conditions like high blood pressure, brain health, and arthritis. In nearly all of these categories, the Mediterranean diet performs exceptionally well.
For example, the Mediterranean diet is rated the best diet for diabetes, high cholesterol, arthritis, and gut health. It’s also recognized for supporting mental health, inflammation, and even prediabetes. As Dr. Melanie Jay, a professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, notes, “The Mediterranean diet has a lot more options and may be the easiest out of all of these for some people to follow, but each one of these diets would be much better than the typical American diet.”
Other diets like the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet and the MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet also rank highly, often focusing on reducing sodium intake or promoting neuroprotective foods.
Weight loss options: fast vs. sustainable
When it comes to weight loss, the Mediterranean diet ranks second for overall effectiveness, though it is not known for rapid weight loss. The top spots for quick weight loss are claimed by programs like Jenny Craig and the Keto diet, but these diets often come with challenges related to sustainability. As Dr. Jay points out, “Keto and some of these can be really hard to stay on long term.”
Instead, diets like the Mediterranean and DASH are easier to maintain because they don’t require meticulous calorie counting or strict meal planning, making them a better choice for long-term weight management. Registered dietitian Erin Palinski-Wade emphasizes that diets should foster sustainable, gradual changes: “Whenever you are too restrictive and have very specific things to follow every day you are basically setting yourself up for failure.”
A more holistic approach to eating
Long-term success with any diet relies on making consistent, healthier food choices that align with your lifestyle. This year’s rankings focus not just on quick fixes but on sustainable changes. Dr. Vadiveloo suggests adopting a broader perspective on healthy eating: “Don’t assume you need to get it right the first time… if it doesn’t go as planned for one meal or one day, the next time you’re hungry you can still be thoughtful and try instead of the chips to reach for a piece of fruit.”
Indeed, the Mediterranean diet’s flexibility makes it a highly adaptable option for various lifestyles and preferences. It’s a model of moderation, with room for occasional indulgences, making it easier to stick with over the long run.
A step toward healthier habits
For those looking to improve their health in 2025, the Mediterranean diet stands out as a versatile and scientifically-backed option. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, seeking weight loss, or simply aiming to adopt healthier eating habits, it offers a balanced and accessible approach.
As Dr. Vadiveloo puts it, “The Mediterranean diet can be modified to fit your personal preferences, which makes it a sustainable choice for most people.” While other diets may work for specific goals, this diet offers broad benefits, reinforcing the idea that health is best achieved through consistent, moderate changes rather than drastic measures.
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