A macrobiotic diet is a whole-food diet that is based on life energy and living in harmony with nature, says PCC Natural Markets. Food is classified into one of two groups: yin or yang, which symbolize opposing life forces. These life energies need to be in harmony for optimal health and well-being, and the macrobiotic diet aims to bring these forces into balance.
History
Taken literally, "macro" is Greek for the word great and the word "bios" is Greek for the word life, says PCC Natural Markets. The macrobiotic diet grew out of a way of life that enabled its followers to live within the larger life order. The word was first seen in writings from Hippocrates, although the first use of the modern diet originated in the 1920s after a man named George Ohsawa claimed he was cured of disease through his diet. Central to his diet concept are the ideas of yin and yang, or opposing forces that need to work in harmony.
Features
A macrobiotic diet involves eating certain kinds of foods that are said to balance each other for optimal health. According to the American Cancer Society, a traditional macrobiotic diet consists of 50 to 60 percent whole grains that are organically grown, 20 to 25 percent locally grown fruits and vegetables, and 5 to 10 percent of soups made with miso, vegetables, seaweed and beans. White fish, seeds, non-stimulating teas and nuts may also be consumed. Dairy products, stimulants like caffeine and sugar, red meat, poultry and processed foods are discouraged, says the American Cancer Society, along with some vegetables like potatoes, eggplant, spinach, zucchini and avocados.
Preparation and Eating Behaviors
In addition to eating certain types of foods, the food also should be prepared in certain ways in a macrobiotic diet. Utensils, pots and pans need to be made from materials like wood, glass, stainless steel or enamel, and microwaves and electrical devices are usually not used in food preparation, says the American Cancer Society. Taking vitamin and mineral supplements is discouraged, and foods that are heavily processed are usually not eaten. When eating food, the food is chewed until it has changed to fluid, to supposedly help with digestion.
Considerations
Although the macrobiotic diet has been touted to improve health and cure diseases, no clinical medical studies have shown that it can prevent or cure cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. A low-fat diet rich in vegetables and fruit can help maintain and improve health, but nothing specific to the macrobiotic diet has been found to verify its curative effects.
Warning
Prior to starting a macrobiotic diet, it is important to consult with a health care professional to ensure that nutritional needs are still being met, especially for individuals with medical conditions.
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