Since the dawn of time, people have been debating about which way is the proper way to eat. Even in 2022, with huge amounts of scientific information and research at our fingertips, diets can come and go like the seasons.
Conclusion? There is no one perfect diet for everyone.
If you are a Well Citizen reader, we already know you prioritize health and wellness as much as we do. The food you consume is an integral part of that. We are here to help you feel your best. So, we are breaking down the most popular diets in 2022 to help you find the right one for you.
(Disclaimer: When we use the word ‘diet’, we are referring to a style of eating, rather than any weight loss strategies. We prefer to think of food as a powerful tool to help you feel and perform at your best. If weight loss is your goal, we recommend consulting with your physician to build a plan that is right for you.)
Mediterranean Diet
If there’s a prize for the most discussed diet of the year, the Mediterranean diet would definitely be taking home a trophy. This eating style is inspired by the cuisines of cultures such as Greece and Italy.
It’s not surprising that it is so popular. Many diets focus on restriction, with long lists of food that shouldn’t be eaten. The Mediterranean diet, on the other hand, focuses on variety and abundance.
This style of eating is characterized by an emphasis on eating a wide variety of plant foods, alongside healthy proteins like fish. While the rules are not as strict as other diets, the Mediterranean diet encourages practitioners to avoid things like red meat, processed foods, and an abundance of dairy.
One of the most interesting aspects of this style of eating is the mindset switch. In most Western styles of cooking, a meal centers on a protein source, such as chicken or beef, with plant based foods acting as a side dish. On the Mediterranean diet, people are encouraged to think of their vegetable dishes as the main course, and things like fish and cheese as a side.
The Mediterranean diet is perfect for those who want to incorporate more fresh foods into their diet, but are wary about trying anything restrictive. In terms of health benefits, its focus on healthy fats and omega-3 rich foods makes it an ideal eating style for those who are interested in promoting heart health.
Veganism
There are many stereotypes about veganism that can make it seem unapproachable to a newcomer. The truth though, is that a well balanced vegan diet can be one of the healthiest ways to eat.
Veganism is both a diet and an ethical practice, in which people do not consume or use products that come from animals. This includes meat, fish, dairy, eggs, and byproducts like gelatin. While many vegans make the switch out of a desire not to harm animals, many other people decide to eat this way for its many health benefits.
Vegan diets are a great way to incorporate more fiber into your system, which can help assist in better digestion. It is also a diet that is very low in cholesterol and saturated fat, which can lead to increased heart health. This plant based way of eating also eliminates many foods that have been linked to inflammation in the body.
It’s important to note that it is easy to eat an unhealthy vegan diet, and rely on meat and cheese substitutes. We recommend that new vegans focus on eating whole foods, and make sure to supplement with B-12.
Ketogenic Diet
The Ketogenic diet seemed to come out of nowhere, and suddenly everyone was trying it. This way of eating follows in the footsteps of the Atkins diet, and focuses on eating a low carb, high fat diet.
The Ketogenic diet (Keto, for short), was originally designed as a weight loss method. The theory behind it is that consuming high amounts of fat with low amounts of carb will put your metabolism into a state called ketosis. In a ketosis state the body is able to more efficiently burn fat for energy. This energy is produced when fat is turned into ketones in the liver.
High ketone levels also have benefits for the entire body, including potentially lowering insulin and blood sugar levels.
Intuitive Eating
Less a diet than a practice, intuitive eating is designed to be a solution for those who have an unbalanced relationship with food. In today’s world, where diet culture gives us confusing messages about what food is “good” and “bad,” many people develop unhealthy behaviors and responses to food. Intuitive eating seeks to change that by helping practitioners develop better communication with their own bodies.
Intuitive eating teaches users to listen to their body’s hunger and fullness cues, and make food choices without harsh judgment.
This is a great option for those who have a history of disordered or restrictive eating patterns, and would like to break free from toxic mindsets around food.
Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting seems to polarize people. You either swear by it, or can’t stand it.
Unlike other diets, which focus on what you eat, or how much, intermittent fasting is all about when you eat. Those who practice set a schedule for themself, and eat as much as they want during the allotted time. The schedules vary widely from person to person. Some people choose to take large breaks of time between meals (such as not eating from 9 at night, until noon the next day), or others give themselves an eight hour window to eat in.
The theory behind it is that when the body is allowed a break from regular food intake, it burns off its sugar stores and begins burning fat. But beyond weight loss, many people have reported better digestion and energy from eating this way.
Do you have a diet or way of eating that has changed your life? Share with us in the comments below!
