With the start of each new year, many people look to improve their health and fitness by following a new diet. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start.

To help navigate the sea of fad diets and make informed decisions, we’ve compiled a list of the top-rated diets of 2015.

1. Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is consistently ranked as one of the healthiest diets.

Based on the traditional cuisine of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, this diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and fish, while limiting red meat and processed foods. Studies have shown that following a Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.

2. DASH Diet

The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet was originally designed to help lower blood pressure. However, it has since been recognized as a well-rounded approach to health and nutrition.

The diet focuses on incorporating whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while limiting salt, sugar, and saturated fats. Studies have shown that the DASH diet can help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve overall health.

3. Weight Watchers

Weight Watchers is a popular weight loss program that has been around for over fifty years. It employs a points-based system that assigns values to different foods based on their nutritional content and encourages members to make healthier choices.

The program also provides support through meetings and online resources. Studies have shown that Weight Watchers can be an effective tool for both short-term and long-term weight loss.

4. Flexitarian Diet

The Flexitarian diet is a mostly plant-based approach to eating, while still allowing for occasional meat consumption.

It emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based proteins, while limiting processed and high-fat foods. Studies have shown that following a Flexitarian diet can lead to weight loss, improved heart health, and a reduced risk of certain cancers.

5. Paleo Diet

The Paleo diet is based on the dietary habits of our hunter-gatherer ancestors. The diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, such as meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, and nuts, while eliminating grains, legumes, and dairy.

Proponents of the diet argue that it can lead to weight loss and improved health markers, such as blood lipid levels and glycemic control. However, some critics have raised concerns about the restrictive nature of the diet and its potential to result in nutrient deficiencies.

6. Vegetarian Diet

The vegetarian diet is a well-established dietary approach that eliminates meat and can include or exclude dairy and eggs. The diet can be beneficial for individuals looking to reduce their environmental impact and improve their health.

Plant-based diets have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. However, it is important for vegetarians to carefully consider their nutrient intake and ensure that they are getting enough protein, iron, and vitamin B12.

7. Vegan Diet

The vegan diet is similar to the vegetarian diet but eliminates all animal products, including dairy and eggs. Like the vegetarian diet, a vegan diet can be beneficial for health and the environment.

Studies have shown that vegan diets can lead to weight loss, lower blood pressure, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. However, as with the vegetarian diet, it is important to carefully consider nutrient intake and ensure that all necessary nutrients are being consumed.

8. The Zone Diet

The Zone diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet that emphasizes a specific ratio of macronutrients – 40% carbohydrates, 30% protein, and 30% fat.

The diet focuses on consuming whole, nutrient-dense foods and aims to balance blood sugar levels to regulate hunger and promote weight loss. Some studies have suggested that following the Zone diet can lead to weight loss and improve markers of heart health.

9. The Atkins Diet

The Atkins diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that emphasizes the consumption of protein and fat while limiting carbohydrates.

The diet aims to promote weight loss by inducing a state of ketosis, in which the body uses fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. Some studies have suggested that the Atkins diet can lead to weight loss and improve markers of heart health. However, critics of the diet argue that it can be difficult to sustain and may lead to nutrient deficiencies.

10. The Ornish Diet

The Ornish diet is a plant-based, low-fat diet that emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods. The diet limits intake of animal products, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars.

Studies have shown that following the Ornish diet can improve markers of heart health, such as cholesterol levels and blood pressure, and even reverse heart disease in some cases.

Conclusion

There are many different diets and approaches to eating that can lead to improved health and well-being.

However, it is important to find a diet that works for you and your individual needs, while also ensuring that it is based on sound nutritional principles. The top-rated diets of 2015 listed here offer a variety of options for individuals looking to improve their health and nutrition.