For the majority of Americans committed to getting fit and shedding pounds in the new year, U.S. News & World Report has ranked the best diets of 2012 with help from a team of 22 nutrition experts.

The DASH diet grabbed the top spot for the best overall diet followed by the TLC diet.

A total of 25 diets were evaluated and divided into seven categories including best weight-loss diet, best commercial diet plans, and easiest diets to follow (read the full rankings here).

The DASH diet, which stands for  Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, focuses on lowering blood pressure by reducing sodium intake and encouraging a healthy mix of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables rich in vitamins like potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/best-diet-2012-2012-1#ixzz1iaKj9zZU