" I'm not one for extremes, and for years I've been following a healthy lifestyle and a macrobiotic diet. This way of eating not only helps to maintain a healthy weight, but also to relieve stress," says singer Madonna.
As promised in one of my previous articles, I'm going to talk about the macrobiotic diet, which is so appreciated by Madonna. I will also leave here my opinion about this diet, which probably may not be as relevant as Madonna's :), but in any case it will mean something to those who read my letters.
The Macrobiotic Diet or the Oshawa Diet (based on the teachings of Japanese philosopher George Oshawa) means more than just a nutritional program. In essence, this is a lifestyle that emphasizes balance and harmony. It involves a strict nutritional program, light exercise and certain modifications in your way of living. The goal is more than noble: to create a peaceful and natural lifestyle.
Some people turn to the Oshawa diet in search of better health. Others choose this diet after receiving a medical diagnosis such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, or premenstrual syndrome, hoping that the new lifestyle will improve symptoms and speed up the healing process.
In fact, the goal of a macrobiotic diet is to achieve a balance between Yang (active) and yin (passive) energy in the body. According to Chinese philosophy, Yin-Yang dualism characterizes every aspect, phenomenon or being. In general, in a given situation or being at a particular moment in time, one or the other of the two energies prevails.
A person can enhance one or the other Yin or Yang qualities by eating foods with the respective predominance. However, in general, the modern way of eating leads to an excessive strengthening of Yin energies, which leads to an increase in the number of Yin diseases such as tumors, diabetes, and rheumatism.
Therefore, in order to achieve its goal of balancing the two energies, the macrobiotic diet includes foods that are considered more yang or yin, and involves eating foods prepared in a certain order and manner.
"Yang" foods are those that are essential to the body because their energy is of a tonic nature.
Whole grain products make up 50-60% of the macrobiotic diet and include: brown rice, barley, whole wheat and oats.
Other grains such as dried and then ground wheat, couscous, cornmeal, rye flakes or barley may be used less frequently.
Raw and cooked vegetables make up 25-30% of the daily ration. Recommended vegetables: cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, onions, zucchini, turnips, carrots, radishes – daily, mushrooms, cucumbers, celery – several times a week.
Legumes (beans, lentils, soy) and seaweed make up 5-10% of the diet, and (vegetable) soups make up 5% of the daily macrobiotic diet.
"Yin" foods are those that should be consumed as infrequently as possible, as their energy is debilitating. These include: sugar, honey, alcoholic beverages, tropical fruits (bananas, mangoes, kiwi, papaya, pineapple), watermelon or plums. The same goes for vegetables: potatoes, eggplant, tomatoes, garlic and beets, as well as milk and its derivatives, white bread, sausages, meat, eggs, shellfish, spices, processed foods, preservatives, colorings and chemical additives.
Sample of macrobiotic diet menu
- Breakfast: oatmeal soaked in water, toasted black bread, a spoonful of honey, tea or herbal infusion.
- Lunch: vegetable soup, sushi or tofu.
- Afternoon snack: an apple.
- Dinner: millet with vegetables, grated radish with roasted seaweed (or more affordable spinach).
There are also some rules to followwhen adhering to a macrobiotic diet. Here I have highlighted 5 of the most important ones:
- Macrobiotic nutritionists consider food to be the main source of water. Therefore, when following a macrobiotic diet, it is not recommended to consume the prescribed two liters of water per day.
- The warmer it is outside – the lighter the food should be. In hot weather, it is vegetable soups and salads that will help the body cope with overheating.
- The macrobiotic diet takes into account the seasonality of foods and recommends eating those foods that are available at that time of year. This helps the body adapt to environmental changes and get the nutrients it needs.
- Any food in a macrobiotic diet is prepared for one meal only. There should not be any leftovers in the refrigerator for three days. Microwaves and other electric kitchen appliances that simplify life are also not recommended. Cooking food is recommended in wooden, glassware or stainless steel pots and pans.
- The macrobiotic diet involves moderate food intake. People following this diet should be able to control their appetite and eat only what they need.
In conclusion, I will say my word. Indeed, as Madonna points out, a macrobiotic diet based on balance and harmony can promote better health, reduce stress, and maintain a healthy weight. However, for those unfamiliar with Japanese cuisine, this diet can be challenging. In addition, people with active lifestyles may lack certain nutrients and energy.
Therefore, before starting any diet, you should consult a doctor or nutritionist to make sure it is right for you.