A macrobiotic diet focuses on the elimination of processed foods in favor of whole foods. According to the American Cancer Society, most versions of the macrobiotic diet are vegetarian, and include whole grains, vegetables and cereals. Some stricter versions of this diet permit only whole grains. Some alternative medicine practitioners believe that a macrobiotic diet may help prevent and treat cancer; however, there are several potential problems with following this diet. Check with your doctor before adopting a macrobiotic diet.
Risk of Rickets
According to P. C. Dagnelie, lead author of "High Prevalence of Rickets in Infants on Macrobiotic Diets," children following a macrobiotic diet may have an increased risk of developing rickets, a condition characterized by bone deformities and frequent fractures. Rickets is caused by deficiencies of vitamin D, calcium and other nutrients. These vitamins are largely absent in macrobiotic foods. This risk is compounded by the high fiber content in macrobiotic foods, which may interfere with the absorption of vitamins and nutrients necessary to prevent rickets.
Nerve Damage
Macrobiotic diets are deficient in vitamin B12, one of eight B vitamins. This vitamin is only found naturally in animal sources such as eggs, meats and dairy products. According to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," vitamin B12 is necessary for the protection of nerve cells. A deficiency in vitamin B12 may lead to permanent nerve damage.
Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency
Foods permitted under the macrobiotic diet do not contain essential fatty acids, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6. This can lead to a deficiency of these fatty acids, which cannot be manufactured by the body. According to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, essential fatty acids play several important roles in maintaining health. They help rebuild skin, muscle, tissue and bone cells. They also help support normal functioning of the brain.
References
- American Cancer Society: Macrobiotic Diet
- Journal of Clinical Nutrition: "High Prevalence of Rickets in Infants on Macrobiotic Diets"; P.C. Dagnelie; February 1990
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
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