A macrobiotic diet is as much a philosophy as it is a way of eating. Originating in Japan, the diet combines elements of Zen Buddhism and vegetarianism with the intention of promoting good health and an environmentally friendly lifestyle. Macrobiotics emphasizes eating foods that are fresh, organic, seasonal and locally grown. The Macrobiotic Guide website explains that the diet is based on the Japanese concept of balancing the two opposing but complementary energies, yin and yang.
Yin/Yang Foods
According to the Macrobiotic Guide, the concept of yin and yang dictates that all forms of life contain both yin (expansion) and yang (contraction) energies, which attract one another in much the same way as a magnet's opposing poles. The macrobiotic diet seeks to balance these two energies through diet, by focusing on eating foods that are themselves more balanced in the two energies, and avoiding consumption of foods with large amounts of either yin or yang. Factors that determine a food's energy include where and how it is grown, its sodium and potassium content, and whether it has a warming or cooling effect on the body.
Diet Composition
The typical macrobiotic diet should consist of 50 to 60 percent whole cereal grains, 20 to 30 percent vegetables, 5 to 10 percent beans and sea vegetables and 5 to 10 percent soups, beverages, condiments and fish, according to the Toronto Vegetarian Association. Whole grains, including brown rice, oats, whole wheat and barley, are easily dried and stored for consumption year-round. Produce should be eaten according to what is in season locally, with the additional recommendation that those foods that provide cooling effects on the body be eaten in warmer weather, and those that provide warming effects be eaten in cooler weather.
Restricted Foods
Processed foods, foods that contain high amounts of salt, sweeteners and chemical additives, highly refined vegetable fats and the majority of animal products are to be avoided or consumed only sparingly in a macrobiotic diet. Baked goods, tropical fruits and nuts such as bananas and cashews, artificial sweeteners including sugar, sodas, coffee, caffeinated teas, meats, poultry and dairy products are all to be avoided, according to the Macrobiotic Guide.
Nutritional Profile
Those wishing to follow a macrobiotic diet should consult a doctor before doing so. While the diet can be healthy and well-balanced, when followed strictly it may be low in certain vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron and vitamins D and B12 --- all of which are normally obtained from animal products. According to the Epigee website, nutritional supplementation may be advised; again, check with your doctor before taking any supplements. Additionally, a macrobiotic diet may not be recommended for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding, children or those with certain medical conditions.
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