Macrobiotic Diet

Originating with the writings of the Greek Hippocrates and commonly associated with Zen Buddhism, the macrobiotic diet has as its tenet the balance of yin and yang in the body through consumption of the appropriate foods (the term itself is made up of 'macro,' meaning great, and 'bios,' meaning life). It emphasizes whole foods and the natural preparation thereof, along with certain lifestyle changes.

In effect, the macrobiotic diet is a holistic regimen to maintain one's physical and spiritual health. The diet is usually made up of grains, vegetables, with a little fish and broth included, but no meat. There are claims that it improves one's health, but it has also been criticized as deficient in calories and unsuitable for people who have food allergies.

Yin and Yang in Food

The Oriental philosophy of yin and yang is central to the macrobiotic diet. These two forces are said to exist throughout all aspects of life, including food.

Yin, also known as the feminine principle, is associated with negativity, darkness, expansion, sweetness and passivity, whereas yang, the masculine principle, is linked to positivity, light, contraction, saltiness, and activity.

Macrobiotic adherents (of which Gwyneth Paltrow is one) follow the maxim that these two forces must be balanced to maintain one's health.

What Foods are Allowed?

A major part of a macrobiotic diet consists of whole grains, like brown rice, whole wheat, corn, because these are foods which contain balanced amounts of yin and yang. Refined flour products can also be eaten, but only in small portions.

Vegetables are another major part of a macrobiotic diet. Some, like cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, onions, squash, wakame, and nori, can be consumed daily. Others, such as mushrooms, celery and peas, should be eaten two to three times a week only.

Other foodstuffs include nuts and vegetable soups. Fresh fish is also allowed under a macrobiotic diet. All these foods may be flavored with natural flavorings, such as sea salt, soy sauce, and barley malt. Food which is excessively yin or yang, such as eggs and dairy products, should be avoided.

Water is expected to be drunk only when the person is thirsty. Only caffeine-free teas are allowed.

Food Preparation

How the food is prepared and consumed is as important in a diet as the food itself. Those who follow a macrobiotic diet are not allowed to use a microwave to cook their food. Vegetables, for example, can be sautéed with as little oil as possible, or steamed. Rice should also be pressure-cooked.

Food is for Nourishment, not Satiation

Eat only when you're hungry. Macrobiotic practitioners are also expected to set their meals in a comfortable environment, chew their food thoroughly, and maintain the proper posture when eating, to help promote the proper flow of yin and yang and therefore bodily functions such as digestion.