Dieete

Dieete is the plural form of the Dutch noun dieet, referring to a prescribed or habitual pattern of eating. In standard Dutch, the common plural is diëten (with a diaeresis); dieete is an uncommon or older variant that may appear in some informal texts. The term describes a structured eating plan, typically adopted to influence body weight, health, or disease outcomes.

Etymology traces dieet to Latin diaeta and Greek diaita, through Old French diète, meaning a daily regimen or way of living. The sense in Dutch and related languages has broadened to cover both medical and lifestyle-focused eating patterns rather than a temporary abstention alone.

Dieeten can be categorized by purpose. Medical or therapeutic diets aim to manage conditions such as hypertension (low-sodium), kidney disease (protein or phosphorus adjustments), diabetes (carbohydrate control), or dyslipidemia. Weight-management dieeten emphasize calorie balance, portion control, or macronutrient composition (for example, low-carbohydrate or Mediterranean patterns). Culturally or religiously influenced dieeten may reflect vegetarian or vegan choices, halal or kosher practices, or fasting regimens.

Effectiveness and safety depend on adherence and nutritional adequacy. Critics warn that overly restrictive dieeten can limit nutrient intake or foster unhealthy relationships with food, while evidence for long-term weight maintenance varies across patterns. Most guidelines emphasize balanced, varied diets tailored to individual health status, preferences, and lifestyle, often with professional guidance from dietitians or healthcare providers.

See also: diet, dietary guidelines, medical nutrition therapy.