Table 1.

Summary of Diet Backgrounds.

Diet	Present Following in U.S. (Estimated)	General Criteria	Health Benefits	Environmental Considerations
Standard American	80% (260 M) [29]	Meals with five food categories (grains, protein, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and oils on the side). No restriction of salt, sugar, saturated fats, or processed foods.	Variable. Balanced diets that focus on whole foods show a reduced risk of disease, while imbalanced and heavily processed diets show the opposite effect.	Higher impact
Mediterranean	5% (16 M) [24]	Emphasizes whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, fish, and olive oil, as well as meat, dairy, egg products, and red wine in moderation. Excludes processed foods and “bad” fats.	Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.	Lower impact
Vegan	5% (16 M) [24]	Excludes animal-based products.	Variable. Balanced diets that focus on whole foods show a reduced risk of disease, while imbalanced and heavily processed diets show the opposite effect.	Lower impact
Paleo	3% (10 M) [24]	Excludes processed foods, refined/artificial sugars, salt, grains, legumes, and most dairy products.	Generally positive impact on health and reduced disease risk.	Higher impact
Keto	5% (16 M) [24]	Emphasizes foods rich in fat and protein. Significantly limits carbohydrates such as sugars and grains.	Individual variation, although general success in short-term weight loss.	Higher impact
Climatarian	Unknown	Emphasizes local, seasonal, and fresh food that requires minimal transportation, refrigeration, and processing. Limits pork, poultry, and sustainable fish consumption. Excludes ruminant meats (lamb, goat, beef).	Unknown, although similarities in composition to the Mediterranean diet.	Lower impact