A macrobiotic diet is more than just a way of eating, it's a way of life, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." The word comes from a combination of the Greek words, "macro," meaning "great," and "bios," meaning "life," Developing a macrobiotic diet plan includes eating specific foods and following the diet philosophy as closely as possible. See your doctor before starting any new diet plan.
Macrobiotic Philosophy
In the late 1800s, Europeans first learned the macrobiotic way of life from a traveling Japanese teacher, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia." Based upon the work of the Japanese healer, Sagen Ishizuka, the macrobiotic philosophy stressed a minimalist diet, of only miso soup, steamed vegetables and brown rice. In the 1960s, macrobiotics became a trend in the United States, followed by the counterculture movement of the era. Since that time, however, macrobiotic diets have added additional food options.
Planning Meals the Macrobiotic Way
The basic macrobiotic meal today consists of 50 percent whole grains, 25 percent protein, 5 percent sea vegetables, 5 percent nuts and fruit and the final 5 percent in the form of soup, according to EveryDiet. Dieters should select only fresh foods grown locally and organically. Cabbage and root vegetables are eaten fresh or used to make soups. Sea vegetables are not required for those who do not live near a sea or ocean.
Foods to Exclude
Foods imported from other areas are not allowed on the macrobiotic diet. The idea is that your body will use foods grown in your own locality much more efficiently than foods grown elsewhere. On a macrobiotic diet, you will avoid sugary sodas and sweets, white rice, processed foods and junk foods, artificial flavorings and foods with other additives, eggs, coffee and baked goods, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Diets: A Guide to Health and Nutrition." Other prohibited foods include red meat, dairy, eggplant, asparagus, peppers, spices, tomatoes and spinach.
Yin and Yang
The idea of Yin and Yang in all foods is a factor in choosing foods on a macrobiotic diet. Yin and Yang represent opposites, which are very important in Asian culture, and must balance, according to The World's Healthiest Foods.
A good working knowledge of the Asian concept of Yin and Yang is necessary on a macrobiotic diet. Environmental forces, and dietary needs, change with the seasons, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia."
Meal Preparation
In addition to selecting approved foods, the macrobiotic dieter will eat two or three meals per day, prepared in cast iron, clay or stainless steel cookware. Cooking takes place on an open flame, instead of an electric burner. Boiling and steaming are encouraged, but baking is out.
Considerations
The American Cancer Society advises dieters that pregnant women and nursing mothers may not receive adequate nutrition on a macrobiotic diet. In addition, patients with diagnosed illnesses should not discontinue medical treatment in favor of following a macrobiotic diet.
References
- "The Gale Encyclopedia of Diets: A Guide to Health and Nutrition"; Jacqueline L. Longe, 2008
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- EveryDiet: Macrobiotic Food
- American Cancer Society: Macrobiotic Diet
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