A microbio, or microbiotic, diet is an erroneous term for the macrobiotic diet, reports the website Weightcontrolroom.com. Proponents of the basically vegetarian macrobiotic diet say it encourages optimum health and helps guard against cancer and other diseases. Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of a macrobiotic diet.
Highlights
The macrobiotic diet was by developed in the 1930s by Japanese philosopher George Ohsawa. Enthusiastic followers of the eating plan define foods as either yin or yang, based on factors such as color, acidity and moisture content. Sugar and coffee are considered very yin while eggs and poultry are regarded as very yang. The goal of macrobiotics is to bring equilibrium to the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your life.
A mostly vegetarian meal plan that consists of natural, unprocessed foods is the foundation of the macrobiotic diet. Macrobiotics frown upon meats, dairy items and oily foods that contain "toxins." Some proponents go as far as to claim the diet regime can prevent and treat serious medical conditions like cancer. However, the American Cancer Society says existing research does not support such claims.
Features
Whole grains compose about 60 percent of the macrobiotic diet. Vegetables like brussels sprouts, carrots and broccoli make up 30 percent of the food plan. Kelp, Irish moss and other sea vegetables are also allowed. Asparagus, spinach, potatoes, tomatoes, and avocados are not advised, according to the ACS.
Cooked beans round out the remaining 10% of the macrobiotic diet. Nuts, seeds, white fish and seasonal fruit can be consumed approximately every other day.
Significance
Macrobiotic food should be prepared in mustard seed oil, benne oil or corn oil. Rice-based vinegar, ginger root, natural sea salt and pickles are the preferred seasonings.
Macrobiotic food is to be prepared in only certain types of pots and pans. Glass, wood, stainless steel, enamel and ceramic cookware are typically recommended. Electric frying pans and microwave ovens are not utilized by macrobiotic afficionados.
Considerations
Food selection on the macrobiotic diet may vary based on the climate, health status, age and gender, points out the Mayo Clinic. Macrobiotics suggests that food be prepared and eaten in a serene environment. Food should eaten with intention and completely chewed until it dissolves into liquid, to ease the digestive process.
Precautions
The macrobiotic diet can be healthy since it recommends a variety of nutritious foods. However the macrobiotic regime can be restrictive and may fail to provide sufficient iron, protein, calcium and vitamin D, cautions the Mayo Clinic. Women who are pregnant and nursing should be especially cautious since some macrobiotic plans may interfere with normal fetal growth. Check with your health care provider before beginning the macrobiotic diet.
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