Diets play a pivotal role not only in achieving weight loss but also in fostering overall well-being. In the complex world of nutrition, certain eating patterns have emerged as effective ways to achieve good health. These carefully curated diets are not mere short-term solutions but sustainable lifestyle choices endorsed by experts, providing a holistic foundation for longevity, vitality, and resilience. Diets, meticulously curated by experts, extend beyond a simple formula for shedding pounds; they are strategic blueprints for sustained healthy life. Embarking on a journey towards a healthier lifestyle often starts with the choices we make in our daily diets. The Forbes Health editorial team, in collaboration with a panel of eight esteemed nutrition experts, has unveiled a list of the best diets to follow in the New Year 2024. Let’s look into the top five diets that have garnered the spotlight for their remarkable health benefits.
Also Read: 9 Mind-Blowing Food Trends That Totally Owned 2023
Here Are 5 Best Diets For 2024 You Must Consider:
1. Mediterranean Diet
What is it:
The Mediterranean diet emphasises a balanced combination of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It primarily includes fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fish. This diet mirrors the traditional eating patterns of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.
Benefits Of Mediterranean Diet:
- Increased life expectancy
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases
- Improved overall quality of life
Jackie Newgent, a registered dietitian, highlights its holistic approach, solidifying its reputation as a sustainable lifestyle choice.
2. DASH Diet
What is it:
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is meticulously crafted for heart health, promoting a low-sodium approach to eating. It has secured the second position, focusing on reducing blood pressure and “bad” LDL cholesterol.
Benefits Of DASH Diet:
- Effectively lowers blood pressure
- Reduces “bad” LDL cholesterol
- Acknowledges challenges of reduced sodium, suggesting spice and herb incorporation for enhanced health benefits
Melina Jampolis, M.D., emphasizes its commitment to heart health and suggests flavorful alternatives to overcome dietary challenges.
3. Flexitarian Diet
What is it:
The Flexitarian diet caters to those desiring the benefits of a plant-based diet without fully omitting meat. Described as a “semi-vegetarian, plant-forward diet,” it emphasizes plant-based foods, dairy, and eggs while allowing occasional, smaller portions of meat.
Benefits of a Flexitarian Diet:
- Supports weight management
- Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes
- Provides flexibility for occasional meat indulgence
Research indicates the potential benefits of this flexible approach, allowing individuals to enjoy plant-based goodness with occasional meat treats.
Also Read: New Study Reveals Guide To Best Diet Changes For Weight Loss
A good diet helps one stay healthy.
Photo Credit: iStock
4. MIND Diet
What is it:
The MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet prioritizes cognitive health by combining elements of the Mediterranean and DASH diets. It offers a holistic approach that significantly slows cognitive decline associated with ageing.
Benefits of the MIND Diet:
- Slows cognitive decline with age
- Contributes to cognitive resilience in the elderly
- Potential edge over the DASH diet for diabetes management
Dr. Jampolis emphasizes the brain-nourishing aspects of the MIND diet, making it a compelling choice for both heart and brain health.
5. Vegetarian Diet
What is it:
The classic Vegetarian diet secures a well-deserved spot in the top five, recognized for its safety and heart-boosting qualities. It involves a lifelong commitment to plant-based eating, with variations like the lacto-ovo vegetarian diet that includes dairy and eggs.
Benefits of Vegetarian Diet:
- 35% lower risk of developing diabetes with lifelong adherence
- 53% lower risk for those transitioning from a non-vegetarian lifestyle
- Safety and heart health are key attributes
- Practical and nutritionally rich, especially the lacto-ovo vegetarian version
Newgent recommends the lacto-ovo vegetarian diet, citing its practicality and nutritional richness as key advantages.
The best diets of 2024, as reported by Forbes Health, offer a diverse range of options catering to various health goals.
