The majority of us always view the beginning of a new year as a nice fresh start. This is particularly true if you are trying to lose weight or achieve specific wellness, diet, or exercise objectives. Because sustainability is crucial, sometimes the hardest aspect of weight reduction is making the decision to start the initial weight-loss plan. We’re here to simplify matters considerably and provide the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Diets rankings for 2024—that is, the top five diets for weight loss. You’ll know exactly what to try for your weight-loss objectives this year if you do this.
According to Gretel Schueller, managing editor of Health at U.S. News, “Experts concur that gradual progress is the key to success in weight loss in particular. It’s preferable to lose weight in a healthy, gradual manner—between one and two pounds every week. Rapid weight loss might reduce your metabolism and result in muscle loss. It may also put you at risk for various health problems and dietary deficits. Reducing portion sizes, adhering to a regular eating schedule, choosing nutrient-dense meals instead of processed foods that are high in fat and sugar, and getting plenty of rest and exercise are all beneficial tactics for sustainable weight loss.”
- WeightWatchers
In U.S. News’ ranking of the top weight-loss plans for 2024, WeightWatchers came in first. The “Points” method used in this diet takes into consideration the amount of fibre, protein, added sugar, and saturated versus unsaturated fat in food. In order to follow WeightWatchers, you must adhere to your weekly and daily Point allotment.
“WeightWatchers is the leading weight-loss programme. Schueller clarifies, “WeightWatchers doesn’t restrict food, like many of the top-ranked diets we’ve discussed.” It also has support, which is a crucial element that makes any diet for weight loss successful. Apart from face-to-face sessions and optional one-on-one consultations, the plan provides a wealth of additional tools, such as an interactive app, an online community, and more. Compared to do-it-yourself dieting, programmes like WW that provide group sessions and emotional support result in higher compliance.”
2. Mediterranean
The Mediterranean diet comes next, and it was named the greatest diet of 2024 overall. “It’s the 7th year in a row that [the Mediterranean diet] scored the top overall spot,” Schueller informs us. “The Mediterranean diet’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its true nature as a lifestyle approach rather than a diet. There are no difficult-to-remember guidelines or components to keep track of.”
What products on the MedDiet should you buy? Pick minimally processed, whole foods: consider plant-based foods (such as fresh fruits and vegetables), whole grains, nuts, fish, chicken, and certain dairy products; also consider healthy fats. You can somewhat enjoy wine as well.
“The tenets of the Mediterranean diet are an emphasis on whole foods daily,” states Schueller. Every meal should start with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, and legumes, as well as some healthy fats like olive oil and almonds. Add seafood at least twice a week. Lastly, permit a reasonable quantity of chicken, eggs, and dairy products per week. You’re set for life if you consider sweets and red meat to be infrequent treats.”
3. Volumetrics
Volumetrics is the third-best diet plan for weight loss in 2024. This diet puts the focus on nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods such fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Foods lower in calories usually contain more water, which gives the food greater “volume” and makes it more filling, according to U.S. News. Fruits, broth-based soups, and non-starchy vegetables are a few examples of these foods.
Reducing consumption of “high-calorie density foods,” such as those high in added sugar and harmful fats, is another key component of volumetrics.
4. Mayo Clinic
The 12-week Mayo Clinic diet programme is designed to assist you in creating long-lasting, healthful habits. Whether you’re cooking at home or going out to eat, you may reach your goal weight and still have great cuisine. You also don’t have to track points or calories when following this eating plan. Instead, it teaches you how to be a wise eater and includes a meal planning tool in the form of a food pyramid that gives priority to fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
5. DASH
Finally, let’s talk about the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute-endorsed Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, or DASH diet. The main components of this diet plan are consuming lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products. You should also limit your intake of foods that are rich in saturated fat and added sugar, such as fatty meats and full-fat dairy products. The goal of the DASH diet is to minimise your risk of heart disease while meeting all of your dietary needs.