A variety of different diet plans are touted to promote good health and help prevent disease. One such plan is the macrobiotic diet, which consists largely of grains and vegetables and a small amount of fish. This diet has certain overall health benefits, though there are also some potential drawbacks.
Philosophy
According to the American Cancer Society, the macrobiotic diet combines elements of Buddhism with some basic dietary principles. The underlying idea behind the macrobiotic diet is a balance between the yin and the yang, two complementary forms of energy that are present within all objects, people and foods. The goal of the macrobiotic diet is to balance these two elements in a way that improves overall health.
Dietary Plan
People following a macrobiotic diet consume different food groups in different proportions. For example, 50 percent of the food should come from whole grains, 25 percent of your food should come from seasonable vegetables, either raw or cooked, and 10 percent of the diet should be from sources of protein, such as legumes or fish. The remaining 15 percent is divided among sea vegetables, soups, and a third food group that includes fruits, nuts and seeds.
Restrictions
A macrobiotic diet is very restrictive. Alcohol, eggs, spices, sugars, cheese and meat are not allowed, because these foods are imbalanced in terms of yin and yang. Microwaves are also not allowed, and rice should be cooked in a pressure cooker. In addition, there are restrictions as to the materials which can be used to make the pots, pans, utensils and other objects needed for food preparation.
Risks
One of the risks of any restrictive diet, such as the macrobiotic diet, is vitamin deficiencies. Restrictive diets can make it difficult to get enough of certain vitamins, such as iron, calcium and vitamin B12. This is especially dangerous for children and teenagers, who often have increased nutritional requirements as they develop. if you are following a macrobiotic diet, you may want to take a multivitamin to supplement your diet.
Benefits
Although some people claim that a macrobiotic diet can prevent or cure cancer, the American Cancer Society states that there is not enough scientific evidence to support this claim. On the other hand, diets that are centered on whole grains, vegetables and fruits, including the macrobiotic diet, have many health benefits. As such, if a macrobiotic diet is planned out carefully and proper nutrition is attained, it can be a healthy diet.
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