Macrobiotics
devotees believe that food, and food quality, affects our lives more than is
commonly thought. It is thought to affect our health, well being and happiness.
They focus on moving away from processed
foods, and moving toward more natural and more traditional methods of food
preparation. They claim it is better to choose food that is less processed,
more natural, use more traditional methods of food preparation for themselves
and their family.
Macrobiotics
emphasize locally-grown, organically-grown whole grain
cereals,
legumes, vegetables,
fruit,
seaweed
and fermented soy products, combined into
meals according to the principle of balance between yin and yang
properties, rather than scientific dietary guidelines. Macrobiotic diets follow
the idea of Yin and Yang. Cereals, fruit, beans, nuts and vegetables, and rice make
up the main part of the diet and are considered neutral and are naturally
balanced in terms of Yin and Yang. Foods which are either extremely Yin in
nature or extremely Yang in nature are eaten very rarely if at all. Very Yin
products include coffee, tropical fruit, sugar, soft dairy products,
vegetables, alcohol and honey. Very Yang
products include poultry, meat, firm dairy products like hard cheeses, and
eggs.
The macrobiotic diet is
high in natural, unprocessed foods, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables. It
is low in saturated fats, whilst providing the essential fats. Food should be
organically grown and eaten fresh. The Macrobiotic lifestyle also governs how
food should be prepared. No microwave should be used - rice must be cooked in a
pressure cooker. Food should be eaten and chewed slowly, in a relaxed manner.
Low-fat high-fiber diets are also believed to play
a role in preventing some types of cancer. And the macrobiotic emphasis on
fresh, non-processed foods may be beneficial to those dealing with certain food
allergies and chemical sensitivities. Followers
assert that the balance and harmony of the macrobiotic diet and lifestyle
create the best possible conditions for health. They claim that the diet yields
many positive health effects, including a general sense of well-being, and some
studies actually show that people on the diet have a decreased risk of heart
disease and some forms of cancer.
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