Breaking news: What we consume can significantly influence our ability to prevent or manage disease and improve overall quality of life. You may already hold this belief, and increasing research backs it up. But with the overwhelming number of diets promising optimal health, which one truly stands out as the best?
Here’s the catch: there isn’t one perfect diet. What works for me might not be ideal for you, and even for each of us, multiple diets might be good options without a clear standout.
So how do you decide which diet is right for you?
When considering the best diet for yourself, think about these questions:
- What are your main objectives? Are you aiming for weight loss, better health, disease prevention, or another goal entirely?
- How do you define “best”? For some, the best diet means one with the broadest range of health benefits. For others, it could be a diet that targets a specific outcome, like reducing cholesterol. Some may prioritize affordability or simplicity in maintaining a healthy diet.
- What health conditions do you have? One diet might be more suitable than another based on whether you’re dealing with cancer, heart disease, diabetes, or none of these issues.
- What foods do you enjoy most? Your personal tastes, cultural background, and location can shape your dietary choices and greatly influence your ability to stick with a plan.
Which diets provide the most health benefits?
Two highly researched diets—the Mediterranean and DASH diets—show considerable health benefits, including reduced risks of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
However, the Portfolio diet may rival or even surpass these, particularly in reducing cardiovascular issues like blocked arteries, heart attacks, and strokes. Haven’t heard of the Portfolio diet? You’re not alone!
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