The Mediterranean and plant-based diets come out on top in Healthline’s ranking of the best diets for weight loss. But everyone is different, so we’ve ranked a handful of other safe options.
Every year, millions of adults in the United States
Along with exercise, dieting is one of the most common methods used to promote weight loss.
However, not all diets are created equal, which can make it challenging to find a weight loss program that’s safe, sustainable, and effective.
This article looks at 13 of the best weight loss programs to consider in 2024.
The weight loss programs below were chosen based on the following criteria:
- Nutritional quality: Weight loss programs are nutritionally balanced and designed to meet nutritional needs.
- Sustainability: Weight loss programs are not overly restrictive, are easy to stick with, and are designed to support long-term weight loss.
- Effectiveness for weight loss: Weight loss programs have all been studied for their ability to promote weight loss.
- Additional health benefits: In addition to supporting weight loss, some programs may offer health benefits for other conditions.
- Dietitian review: All of the programs below were reviewed by registered dietitians Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD, and Kelli McGrane, MS, RD.
- Vetting: The programs and products on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.
Because some people like structured programs and others prefer more flexibility, our list includes a mix of commercial diets and lifestyle dietary patterns.
There are a number of factors to consider when finding a diet or weight loss program that works for you. Here are a few key considerations:
- Lifestyle and preferences: To improve your chances of losing weight and keeping it off, it’s important to choose a diet that can easily fit your lifestyle and food preferences.
- Realistic approach: Similarly, look for a diet program or pattern that’s realistic and sustainable. Steer clear of diets that are overly restrictive or promise a quick fix for rapid weight loss.
- Effectiveness: Select a program that’s backed by research and has been shown to be effective for weight loss.
- Whole-foods approach: Look for a program that emphasizes eating whole foods and be cautious of those that require you to purchase expensive products or supplements to get results.
- Lifestyle approach: Weight loss is about more than just what you eat. It’s important to choose a program that incorporates other healthy habits, such as regular physical activity and mental wellness practices.
If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications, be sure to consult a trusted healthcare professional before making changes to your diet.
Meal planning and meal delivery services support your weight goals
Often, the hardest part of following a diet is figuring out what to cook. But several meal delivery services are available that can make it easier than ever to stick to the diet pattern you choose.
- 12 of the best healthy meal delivery services
- 8 best Mediterranean diet meal delivery services
- Meal delivery for weight loss: The 12 best services
- The 8 best low sodium meal delivery services
- The 11 best vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based meal delivery services
For a more affordable option, consider downloading a meal planning app instead.
Was this helpful?
There are many weight loss programs available, so it’s likely you’ll be able to find something that can work for you.
When picking a diet, look for a program that’s realistic, sustainable, and backed by research.
Be sure to incorporate other healthy habits, such as regular physical activity and mindful eating, into your daily routine to maximize weight loss and improve your overall health.
