Mediterranean Diet Named Best Diet in the World for 2025 by U.S. News Rankings

The Mediterranean diet, long praised for its health benefits, has once again claimed the top spot in the 2025 annual ranking of the world’s best diets by U.S. News & World Report. This marks the 15th year the report has been published, and this time it evaluated 38 different diets across 21 categories. According to the latest findings, Mediterranean cuisine — popular in countries like Israel, is officially the healthiest in the world.

Why the Mediterranean Diet Stands Out

This diet earned exceptionally high scores in key categories, including heart health, diabetes prevention, cognitive function, weight loss, and gut health. Its continued popularity is largely due to its focus on natural, whole foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, healthy fats (especially olive oil), fish, and poultry. It also emphasizes moderation in sweets, red meats, and processed foods.

The report used a five-star rating system, offering a nuanced, personalized assessment across various health conditions such as high blood pressure, arthritis, and digestive health.

Top-Rated Health Categories for the Mediterranean Diet:

• Heart and Brain Health: 4.9 stars

• Diabetes Prevention: 4.7 stars

• Gut Health: 4.3 stars

The Mediterranean diet tied with the DASH diet (designed to lower blood pressure) for first place in the heart health category.

What’s New in the 2025 Diet Rankings?

This year’s report also evaluated 13 new diets, including:

• The Stomach Acidity Diet

• The Menopause Diet

• The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet

The Flexitarian diet, which allows for moderate meat consumption while focusing primarily on plant-based foods, was ranked the best vegetarian-friendly diet. Experts highlighted the importance of cutting back on processed foods and sugar while increasing plant-based intake.

A Science-Backed Starting Point

Health professionals stress that the best diet is the one tailored to your unique needs and medical conditions. The 2025 report offers a science-based foundation for those seeking to improve their eating habits with balance, flexibility, and long-term sustainability in mind.