Macrobiotic diet

The Macrobiotic diet (pronunciation: /ˌmakrəʊbʌɪˈɒtɪk daɪət/) is a dietary regimen that involves eating grains as a staple food supplemented with other foodstuffs such as local vegetables, and avoiding the use of highly processed or refined foods and most animal products.

Etymology

The term "Macrobiotic" is of Greek origin, from "makros" meaning "long" and "bios" meaning "life". It was first used by Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, to describe people who lived long and healthy lives.

Principles

The Macrobiotic diet is based on the principles of balance and harmony, derived from Eastern philosophy. It emphasizes on the consumption of organic, locally grown, and seasonally available foods. The diet is predominantly vegetarian, with a strong focus on whole grains, vegetables, and legumes, while avoiding processed foods, sugars, dairy products, and meats.

Related terms

Whole grains: These are the primary food in the Macrobiotic diet. They include brown rice, barley, millet, oats, and corn.
Vegetables: Locally grown and seasonally available vegetables are preferred. These include broccoli, kale, pumpkin, and radish.
Legumes: These are a secondary source of food in the Macrobiotic diet. They include lentils, chickpeas, and black beans.
Eastern philosophy: The Macrobiotic diet is based on the principles of balance and harmony derived from Eastern philosophy.

Health benefits

The Macrobiotic diet is believed to have several health benefits, including improved digestion, weight loss, and reduced risk of diseases such as heart disease and cancer. However, it's important to note that these benefits are not universally accepted and more research is needed to confirm them.

Criticisms

Critics of the Macrobiotic diet argue that it can lead to nutritional deficiencies due to its restrictive nature. It's therefore recommended that anyone considering this diet should consult with a healthcare professional.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Macrobiotic diet
Wikipedia's article - Macrobiotic diet

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Macrobiotic diet