The word "macrobiotic" means "long life" in its Greek roots and this diet emphasizes long-term health and spirituality. Philosopher George Ohsawa developed the diet. He believed a simple diet and avoiding certain foods, along with integrating Buddhism, Asian medicine and some Christian teachings, could promote wellness and prevent disease, according to the American Cancer Society. Achieving balance of the yin and yang -- the two complementary energy forms -- is an important goal of the diet.
Step 1
Consume at least half of your diet from the whole grains group, which includes brown rice, millet, barley and wheat, states the Kushi Institute of Europe. Another 25 to 30 percent of your diet should come from vegetables. Soup, primarily made with vegetables, should make up 5 to 10 percent of your diet and the other 5 to 10 percent should come from beans or bean products and sea vegetables like nori.
Step 2
Eat fruits, nuts, fish and seafood several times a week if you would like.
Step 3
Chew your food thoroughly when eating, until it is liquid. According to the American Cancer Society, this is done in macrobiotic diets to aid with digestion. It also encourages mindful and slower eating; the macrobiotic diet holds food as sacred and encourages eating in a peaceful atmosphere.
Step 4
Cook foods only in wood, glass, stainless steel or ceramic pots and pans. The macrobiotic way of cooking food emphasizes that you not cook food in chemically-treated or aluminum nonstick pans. You should also primarily cook food with gas or wood heat rather than microwaving or using electric heat, which adds a chaotic vibration.
Step 5
Avoid eating or having a snack at least three hours before going to bed.
Tips and Warnings
- Prior to adopting a macrobiotic diet, it is best to consult your health care provider to make sure this diet is safe and appropriate for you. She might have suggestions to ensure that you consume enough nutrients while following a macrobiotic lifestyle.
- According to the American Cancer Society, a macrobiotic diet may not provide enough nutrients for a developing fetus or for a nursing mother. Pregnant women and those women who are breastfeeding should ask their physicians if it is safe for them to be following this diet.
Things You'll Need
- Whole grain products
- Vegetables
- Vegetable-based soups
- Bean products
- Non-aluminum pots and pans
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