Individual success with a diet or eating plan can vary, and what works for one may not work for another. Learn how to select the right diet for you based on your goals, lifestyle and other factors.
Choosing the best diet or eating plan for you can feel like rocket science. Net carbs, nutrient density, acid-forming foods, inflammation-promoting hormones: What does it all mean? Weight loss or overall health? What’s most important? Celebrity endorser or nutrition expert: Who do you believe?
Finding the best diet that works for you is important. You’re making a major commitment of time, effort, willpower and in some cases, money. But where do you begin? Below, experts walk you through the process of picking the diet that best meets your unique goals and needs.
Determining Personal Goals and Health Needs
It’s tempting to dive right in and get started on the latest diet trend. But assessing your individual goals and any specific health concerns is an important step in the process of choosing the right diet for your health and lifestyle.
Here are three steps to consider before getting started:
“Selecting the right diet starts with you,” says Valerie Agyeman, a women’s health dietitian and founder of Flourish Heights, a nutrition practice aimed at empowering women to thrive in health and have a better relationship with food and their body. “One of the first things to consider is to take a look at all the past diets you have tried, if any, and ask yourself what didn’t work along with reflecting how it made you feel, both physically and mentally.”
Take your present eating habits into account, says Maxine Smith, a registered dietitian with Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Human Nutrition. Which positive habits do you already have and wish to continue? Which dietary changes are realistic to make with your available resources and lifestyle?
“The right diet for you will include a wide variety of foods, with an emphasis on whole or minimally processed foods, and fit into your schedule and lifestyle,” adds Carrie Dennett, a Pacific Northwest-based registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of Nutrition by Carrie.
Starting a diet can be driven by a range of motivating factors. Ask yourself: Why do I want to start a diet? Consider the following diet motivators:
- Weight loss and/or weight management
- Increased energy levels
- To save money
- To make more eco-friendly dietary choices
- Disease prevention or management
- Mental health and well-being
- Improved overall health
Being clear about your goals can help you align your values with a particular diet, Smith says.
