MIND Diet Ranked #1 Best Diet for Brain Health in 2025!
We are thrilled to share that the MIND Diet, created by our research team at Rush University Medical Center, has been recognized as one of the top diets for 2025 by U.S. News & World Report. It is wonderful to see a research-based approach gaining more recognition – and it’s leading the way in multiple categories!
From brain health to heart health, the MIND Diet is proving to be a powerhouse for overall well-being.
Here’s how the MIND Diet ranked in the 2025 Best Diets rankings:
#1 for Brain Health & Cognition
The MIND Diet was ranked #1 for Brain Health, making it the ultimate choice for reducing risk for cognitive decline and dementia. Research from observational cohort studies shows that high adherence to the MIND diet can delay cognitive decline with aging by an average of 7.5 years and lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by as much as 53%. Even with moderate adherence, the MIND diet has been shown to reduce Alzheimer's risk by 35%, outperforming the Mediterranean and DASH diets in this regard. This suggests that the MIND diet may offer a more feasible dietary strategy for supporting both cardiometabolic health and cognitive function. Read more about the MIND Diet Foundational Research here.
What does it mean to have a “therapeutic” MIND Diet Score?
Secondary analyses from our MIND diet clinical trial showed that individuals with the highest MIND diet scores (10.3-13.1) had significantly better cognitive performance after three years compared to those with the lowest scores (2.9-8.5). Additionally, participants who improved their score by at least 3 points experienced better cognitive outcomes, regardless of their starting score at the beginning of the study.
Find out your score by taking our MIND Diet Quiz.
#2 for Mental Health
In addition to supporting cognitive health, the MIND Diet may also support mental health. One research group found lower stress levels and better insulin sensitivity in individuals with higher MIND diet scores. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, anxiety, or even symptoms of depression, healthy nutrition and lifestyle habits can play a crucial role in your mental wellness. Find a program for managing stress and supporting your brain here.
#2 (Tie) for Gut Health and Diverticulitis
Gut health and brain health are deeply interconnected, and the MIND diet’s emphasis on fiber-rich foods like whole grains, beans, berries, leafy greens, and other vegetables makes it a top contender for gut health as well. A healthy gut can improve digestion, boost immunity, and even enhance mood, making the MIND Diet a gentle, healing approach to digestive health through the Brain-Gut Connection.
#3 (Tie) for Heart-Health and Diabetes
The MIND Diet’s emphasis on heart-healthy foods—such as extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), nuts and seeds, and fatty fish—earned it a #3 ranking for heart health. We know that what’s good for the heart is also good for the brain. The key risk factors for cardiovascular disease—high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes—are also linked to an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline. This is important because it means that by taking steps to prevent heart disease, you’re also helping protect yourself from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
For those looking to manage or prevent diabetes, the MIND Diet earned a #3 ranking in this category as well. The MIND diet's focus on exchanging white, refined starches for whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugar levels and support healthy insulin function.
Take Action for Your Health Today!
With so many impressive rankings, now is the perfect time to embrace the MIND diet and start reaping its benefits. Whether you’re looking to support your brain, heart, gut, or overall health, the MIND Diet has proven itself to be the best choice.
The Official MIND Diet is your one-stop shop for recipes, meal planning tools, and other lifestyle resources to help you get started. If you’re looking for personalized guidance, our team is here to help you integrate the MIND diet into your lifestyle.
We’re so proud of this recognition and can’t wait to continue supporting your journey toward better health!
P.S.
We’d love to hear about your experience with the MIND diet! Share your journey with us on @TheOfficialMindDiet or email us at info@theofficialminddiet.com with your favorite MIND-friendly recipes and success stories.
