The Mediterranean diet has been voted as the best diet for 2022, for the fifth year running, according to ratings by the US News and World Report.
The Mediterranean Diet was ranked number one as best plant-based diet, best heart-healthy diet, best diabetes diet, the best diet for healthy eating, and the easiest diet to follow.
The Mediterranean Diet Pyramid was created in in 1993 by Oldways in partnership with the Harvard School of Public Health and the World Health Organisation.
This diet pyramid recommends a daily intake of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, herbs, spices, nuts and healthy fats such as olive oil, twice-weekly servings of fish and seafood, moderate portions of dairy foods, eggs, and occasional poultry and infrequent servings of red meats and sweets.
Various studies have also found that the Mediterranean diet could reduce the risk of dementia, memory loss, diabetes, depression and some form of cancers. The diet, which has also been described as more of an eating style than a restricted diet, has also been linked to stronger bones, a healthier heart and longer life.
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In second place were the DASH diet, which stands for dietary approaches to stop hypertension and emphasises reducing salt intake; and the flexitarian diet, which encourages being a vegetarian most of the time but is flexible enough to allow a burger once in a while.
The winning diets were noted to fall within accepted ranges for the amount of protein, carbs, fat and other nutrients they provide.
The Mediterranean diet, which comprises meals from Greece, Spain, Italy and French was voted the healthiest diet as it is a key secret to an active lifestyle, weight control which is low in red meat, sugar and saturated fat and high in produce, nuts and other healthful foods.
According to usnews.com, the Mediterranean diet may offer a host of health benefits, including weight loss, heart and brain health, cancer prevention, and diabetes prevention and control.
By following the Mediterranean diet, you could also keep that weight off while avoiding chronic disease, experts suggest.
In an email correspondence with CNN, the managing editor of health for US News & World Report, Gretel Schueller said the top diets were driven by what can be eaten and not what cannot be eaten which are particularly helpful for people, especially during the pandemic.
She also added that the winning diets provide wholesome nutrition and also allow for occasional treats.
“All the diets that perform well are safe, sensible and backed by sound science. The diet winners also all provide adequate calories with a focus on vegetables, fruits and whole grains; a modest amount of lean protein, dairy; and an occasional treat.”
