The concept of macrobiotics was first mentioned in the writings of Greek philosopher Hippocrates and translates literally to "great life." The macrobiotic diet is a very strict eating plan based on whole foods and no meat except fish. The macrobiotic diet promotes physical health and spiritual balance. Proponents of the diet claim that following its strict principles will improve health and longevity and bring peace to your life. However, science has not proven the claims made about the diet, and you should always check with your doctor before beginning any health program.
History
Although the concept of macrobiotics has existed for centuries, its practice began to spread in the 1920s. A Japanese educator named George Ohsawa claimed to have cured himself of disease by following a strict diet of brown rice, miso soup and sea vegetables. Michio and Aveline Kushi founded the Kushi Institute in 1978, which further spread the practice of this way of eating.
Principles
The foods consumed on the macrobiotic diet are very healthy by mainstream definitions. The diet focuses on low fat intake and emphasizes consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The macrobiotic diet also avoids processed foods, caffeine, sugar, alcohol, meat and cheese. The macrobiotic diet is intended to be a lifestyle change rather than a short-term method used for weight loss.
Spiritual Aspects
The macrobiotic diet defines foods and drinks as either yin or yang, and strives for a balance between them. Food should also be organically grown and prepared in a specific way, avoiding microwaves and cooking rice in a rice cooker. You should eat food slowly and mindfully, and only eat when hungry. Kitchens should be kept tidy and organized.
Health Claims
The Kushi Institute promotes macrobiotic diets for preventing and treating cancer. According to the Cancer Center at the University of California at San Diego, evidence supporting the use of macrobiotic diets to prevent cancer is limited. You should not attempt to cure cancer with the macrobiotic diet and should discuss its use with your doctor. However, the macrobiotic diet may work well with conventional treatments for cancer, and the low-fat aspects of the diet may prevent heart disease.
Recommended Foods
Approximately 50 to 60 percent of your diet should consist of whole grains; 25 to 30 percent vegetables; 5 to 10 percent bean and miso soup; and 5 to 10 percent sea vegetables and beans. Nuts and seafood may be eaten once or twice a week. Recommended foods include sea vegetables such as kombu and nori; whole grains such as whole wheat and brown rice; vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower and squash; tofu and soup. Drink purified water when thirsty.
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