Experts named the best diet in the world

The Mediterranean style of eating has been named the best diet in the world. This is the opinion of American nutrition experts.

US News & World Report magazine has published its annual ranking of the best diets, and the Mediterranean diet has been ranked first for the fourth time. For its annual selection, the magazine's editors analyzed more than 40 types of diets and talked to various nutrition experts.

To be precise, is the Mediterranean diet more of a lifestyle than a diet? There are no restrictions, and the diet itself is rich in vegetable products, fish, and seafood. Those who follow this style of eating do not need to count calories or proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

The second place was taken by the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), which is the name of a dietary approach to treating hypertension. The third place was taken by the flexitarian diet. Flexitarianism is considered one of the types of vegetarianism that does not require a complete abandonment of meat. However, the main menu of the diet is usually based on a large number of vegetables, fruits, cereals, and grains.

The Mediterranean diet was also recognized as the best in four other categories: the best diet for healthy eating, the easiest diet, the diet for diabetes, and the best plant-based diet. It was also included in the list of the most beneficial diets for the heart - in this list, it took second place.

What is the Mediterranean diet?

The menu is designed so that 60 percent of the diet is allocated to vegetables and fruits, 25-30 percent to healthy fats, and 15 percent to protein. The Mediterranean style of eating differs from other diets in that it does not limit calories or exclude certain food groups.

• The diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, olive oil, herbs, and spices.
• Seafood and poultry are the main types of meat in the Mediterranean diet.
• Dairy products, eggs, and red wine can be consumed in moderation.

At the same time, experts note that if you eat meat, it is better to eat no more than 85 grams of chicken or other lean meat at one meal. And nutritionists advise eating fruit as a dessert.