There has been a lot of discussion in the health media about the benefits of a macrobiotic diet. The jury is out as to whether it is the best diet around, but as with all things it may be worth trying it yourself to see if it agrees with you. Certainly, it looks like a very healthy diet as it includes raw foods, very little meat, not much fat and lots of fibre. So, is there anything more to the macrobiotic diet than the fashion of the moment?
A macrobiotic diet is very much a lifestyle choice; this means it has a specific formula and style which you should keep to over a period of time. Many people choose a macrobiotic diet due to its specific dietary requirements because they are overweight, have allergies or simply find that the diet increases their vitality and optimizes their digestive functioning – very important for your wellbeing.
The most recent style of macrobiotic diet was coined by two Japanese pioneers George Oshawa and Sagen Ishizuka. Before this, the German doctor Christoph Wilhelm Hufeland described “macrobiotics” as a method of maintaining high levels of vitality, developing the balance between our inner and outer worlds and eating specific foods known to be good for you. The word originates from the Greeks Hippocrates and Aristotle; to them, someone who was macrobiotic was extremely healthy, full of vitality and lived to a ripe old age!
When you look at what is involved in a macrobiotic diet you will quickly see that it is a healthy choice. The diet avoids coffee, alcohol, sugar, processed food and virtually all meat apart from a little fish. The diet focuses on seasonal foods, which makes sense as it is nature’s way of helping your body adjust to seasonal changes. In true Eastern style it’s all about creating balance in your life, eating the right foods at the right time that don’t give you too much energy nor make you sluggish; thus balancing your Yin and Yang energies. Brown rice and other whole grains are a major part of the diet, so ensure you are getting nutrients in their superior, ‘whole’ form. Raw, steamed, boiled or baked vegetables and fruit and nuts make up the rest of your healthy programme. If you are seeking to manage your weight or simply improve your all round wellness through your diet, the macrobiotic way could be for you.
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