Irritable bowel syndrome can cause cramping, stomach pain, gas, diarrhea and constipation. Unfortunately, the cause is unknown. IBS does not cause any permanent damage to the colon. When you find the foods that trigger your illness, you can reduce the symptoms. Many patients find they can control their symptoms through changing their diet and reducing stress. Macrobiotic diets may help you find your food triggers and give you a palatable way of reducing stress while continuing to enjoy your foods.
Macrobiotics
A macrobiotic diet is one that is generally vegetarian. You eat mainly whole grains, cereals, and raw and cooked vegetables. The earliest recorded use of the term is found in the writings of Hippocrates. Modern practice was begun in the 1920s by a Japanese educator, George Ohsawa. He believed he cured himself through dietary changes incorporating Chinese teachings of yin and yang. The diet works to achieve balance between the yin and yang of foods and disease, thereby creating harmony in the body and allowing the body to heal itself.
Individualization
The macrobiotic diet attempts to effect harmony between disease states and the foods that are eaten. According to MotherNature.com, foods are also classified as yin and yang. Eating foods that are more neutral can help the body more easily achieve balance. Foods that are considered more extremely yin or yang are to be avoided. According to Seven Heavens nutritional consultants, macrobiotic diets are individualized to the person, their surroundings and their disease state. Because IBS is influenced by stress and the environment, you are encouraged to eat in a relaxed state, using good posture, in an area free of clutter and in good order.
Foods to be Eaten
The standard macrobiotic diet encourages foods that are neutral, such as whole grains and vegetables, according MotherNature.com. Whole grains include brown rice, barley, millet, oats, corn, rye and whole wheat, which should consist of between 50 percent and 60 percent of your overall diet. Fresh vegetables should encompass between 25 percent and 30 percent of your overall diet. It is highly recommended that you include cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, bok choy, collards, mustard greens, acorn squash, butternut squash and pumpkin. These vegetables are high in fiber and should be introduced into the diet slowly to reduce any symptoms of IBS. The remainder of the diet can comprise beans, soups and broths, at between 10 percent and 20 percent of the diet. Several times each week you may enjoy some nuts, seeds and fresh fish.
Foods to Avoid
According to MotherNature.com, foods that should be avoided are extremely yin or yang. These can include all animal meat and byproducts, such as eggs and dairy products. Other foods that should be eliminated from the diet are refined sugars, chocolates, tropical fruits, soda, coffee and hot spices. Any foods that are processed with artificial colors, flavors or preservatives should also be avoided to maintain balance and lessen your IBS symptoms.
Cooking
Cooking styles are also important in a macrobiotic diet for people who suffer from IBS. It is suggested that you lightly steam, boil or sauté with a small amount of cold-pressed oil, according to Seven Heavens nutritional consultants. People who practice a macrobiotic diet usually will not cook with electricity or microwaves. Proponents recommend using a gas stove or wood-burning fire to heat the food because they believe it gives energy and vitalizes physically, mentally and spiritually.
Utensils
According to the American Cancer Society, individuals who adhere to the macrobiotic diet use specific utensils, pots and pans. Diet proponents advise that cooking materials should be of wood, glass, ceramic, stainless steel or enamel. Pans made of aluminum are thought to possibly leach material into the food, producing a toxic effect.
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