An old diet offers a new way to look at healthy eating

A traditional macrobiotic diet consisted of eating only whole grains, cereals and vegetables. Because this way of eating was considered very extreme, the macrobiotic diet really never caught on mainstream. However, many are adopting a new way to utilize the teachings of macrobiotics. This new macrobiotic diet promotes the eating of whole foods vs. processed along with many of the old lifestyle teachings.

The basic macrobiotic diet consists of a simple eating plan including fresh locally grown foods, certain ways of cooking these foods and some elements of Buddhism. Using a macrobiotic diet you will eliminate dairy, fatty meats and processed foods because of their toxic effects on the body. Whole grains will take up about half of your diet while the other half will be vegetables, soups and some fruits. You will need to be aware of what foods are ok and which are restricted if following a true macrobiotic diet. Along with your whole grains and vegetables the macrobiotic diet food list allows for a limited amount of nuts, seeds, fish, and some other miscellaneous food items.

A life style change is also in order to practice true macrobiotic teachings. Meditation, slowing down and even the way you chew your food will need to change. You will chew each bit of food more thoroughly and meditate often. Prepare meals in a peaceful environment and cook using items made from glass or wood instead of Teflon. Boil or steam rather than use the microwave.

While there are many pros to using a macrobiotic diet, there are also draw backs. Some are concerned with the deficiency of some vitamins and lack of protein. Some people with certain conditions may not want to eliminate dairy and eggs from their diets. Many will agree the good aspects of a macrobiotic diet outweigh the bad. A healthy diet such as this has much more benefit than down side.

If you are making sure to get adequate nutrition, a macrobiotic diet might be the healthy choice you’re looking for. If you are serious about trying macrobiotics, its best to speak to a doctor or registered dietitian to be sure your dietary needs are being met.