Every year, U.S. News & World Report’s Best Diets expert panel evaluates the best diets for a number of categories. The ratings of those diets can help people determine which diets to try and the best Diets at Helping People.
At the same time, many people today choose the products they purchase, where to go on vacation and even which doctors to see based on user reviews. This survey asked participants to rate the primary diet they tried on a scale of one to five based on how effective it was at helping them reach the specific goal that they had identified in the survey. These goals ranged from weight loss and aging well to reducing the risk of chronic disease.
The diet that was found to be most effective at helping people reach their goals was the Mediterranean diet. This is no surprise, as the Mediterranean diet is consistently a favorite among our panel of experts, both overall and for managing many health conditions.
The Ornish diet came in second for helping people achieve their goal, and the flexitarian diet was a close third. Thses are great Diets at Helping People lose that extra weight.
Survey Respondents’ Overall Feelings
As part of the diets survey, users were asked to describe their experience on the diets in their own words. Here’s how the respondents felt about 10 popular diets:
Atkins diet
Respondents reported that the Atkins diet was effective for short-term, rapid weight loss. People appreciated that it didn’t require calorie counting and that it kept them feeling full. However, some noted that it was difficult to stick with and found themselves regaining weight after stopping the diet.
DASH diet
Many people found that DASH was helpful for lowering blood pressure and improving heart health, as well as lowering cholesterol. They also found it flexible and affordable to follow. However, the sodium restrictions were difficult for some people, and they noted that it wasn’t a rapid solution for weight loss.
Flexitarian diet
As per its name, this diet was praised for its flexibility and health benefits. However, people noted challenges with weight loss and felt like the meal prep requirements were slightly more challenging than they anticipated.
Keto diet
The keto diet’s simplicity and effectiveness for fast weight loss were standout features for many people. While respondents noted reduced cravings, reduced blood pressure and clearer skin, they also listed side effects like headaches and digestive issues. Some people noted that it can feel restrictive and make it difficult to eat out.
Mayo Clinic diet
Respondents appreciated that the Mayo Clinic diet is evidence-based, health-centric and flexible. Following the diet requires meal prep and fresh produce, which some people found to be more difficult than anticipated.
Mediterranean diet
An expert and user favorite, the Mediterranean diet was praised for its health benefits, extensive evidence base, flexibility and simplicity. People noted that it isn’t something that helps with fast weight loss, but said they saw improvements in cardiovascular health, energy and digestion.
Noom
Behavior change education was a highlight of the Noom plan’s offerings. Users noted that they appreciated Noom’s flexibility, but also had concerns about sustainability of the diet and cost.
Nutrisystem
Many people appreciated the ease of following the Nutrisystem diet, pointing out that the pre-measured portions are convenient and simple. They appreciated the snack options and people noted experiencing initial weight loss, however some noted weight regain in the long-term and didn’t love the taste of the prepackaged meals.
OPTAVIA
This plan was appealing to many people because of its ability to help them lose weight quickly. However, people found it challenging to stick to long term and noted that it felt costly. Good Diets at Helping People lose weight.
WeightWatchers
A popular choice among respondents, the WeightWatchers diet was praised for its effectiveness at helping people achieve their weight loss goals. Respondents loved the community support, but noted that it was expensive and that in-person support was dwindling.
Bottom Line
Based on the results of this user survey, many people who try diets are trying to lose weight, but many others have different goals beyond just shedding pounds: improving overall health, managing health conditions, supporting healthy aging and more. These are good Diets at Helping People lose weight.
Additionally, seeing a registered dietitian for guidance about following a new diet can give you the best chance of a positive outcome.
