A simple macrobiotic approach to food stresses the importance of natural foods as a way of creating a balanced, life-sustaining diet. It arises from the belief that foods are the foundation of health and happiness, extending into every part of our existence. Although a strict macrobiotic diet eliminates many foods that occur abundantly in our culture, such an approach also offers true benefits.
History
The macrobiotic diet traces its roots back to the early 20th century. Japanese philosopher George Ohsawa, diagnosed with several incurable diseases, created the first macrobiotic diet in the 1920s as an approach to ridding his body of the ailments, according to the website Epigee. The diet he created limited him to brown rice, sea vegetables and water. The basis for this approach arose from the Japanese concept of yin and yang -- forces that must be kept in balance for true harmony in life. The macrobiotic diet considers yin foods to be sweet and yang foods to be salty with the goal of maintaining even portions of each.
What to Eat
According to Epigee, between 50 and 60 percent of the macrobiotic diet is made up of whole grains including brown rice, barley, whole wheat, corn and oats. Vegetables -- both raw and cooked -- account for another 25 to 30 percent of the diet. Vegetables recommended for daily consumption include cabbage, kale, bok choy and broccoli while celery and mushrooms should be limited to a few servings a week. Beans -- lentils and chickpeas, for example -- combined with sea vegetables such as nori make up 5 to 10 percent of the diet, as do soups and broths.
Foods to Avoid
The macrobiotic diet requires that certain foods be avoided entirely. According to the Macrobiotics Guide, animal based foods -- including red meat, poultry and dairy products -- should not be consumed at all. It is also important to stay away from processed foods such as many types of frozen dinners, packaged cookies and crackers. Refined foods -- sugar and white flour in particular -- should be replaced with natural alternatives. Caffeinated products -- mainly coffee and soda -- need to be left behind as well. While fish and seafood should not be eaten often, it is permissible to have them on occasion in small quantities.
Potential Benefits
While the American Cancer Society points out that there have not been any known clinical studies demonstrating a link between the macrobiotic diet and cancer prevention, the site acknowledges that low-fat, high fiber diets -- such as macrobiotics -- are believed to be part of a healthy lifestyle that can help reduce the risk of cancer. These same qualities also help to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke as well as reduce cholesterol levels. Moreover, well-balanced, natural-based diets have been shown to aid in weight loss when combined with a healthy fitness routine.
Exercise Caution
The American Cancer Society contends that macrobiotic diets have been linked to severe malnutrition and even death. The complete removal of animal products from diets can result in nutritional deficiencies -- specifically iron, calcium and vitamin D -- and may require the use of supplements to cover for the shortcomings. As a result, pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding and children should not follow a macrobiotic diet. Additionally, given the potential risks, it is advisable for anyone considering a macrobiotic diet to consult a physician or nutritionist prior to beginning such a regimen.
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