n considering all factors that influence our lives, the macrobiotic approach to health and healing views sickness as the natural attempt of the body to return to a more harmonious and dynamic state with the natural environment. As what we choose to eat and drink and how we live our lives are primary environmental factors that influence our health and create who we are, the macrobiotic approach emphasizes the importance of proper dietary and lifestyle habits.
By using macrobiotic principles to address and adjust environmental, dietary and lifestyle influences, thousands of individuals have been able to prolong their lives by recovering from a wide range of illnesses including heart disease, cancer, diabetes and many others (view some of these recovery testimonials on our library pages). The macrobiotic approach to health recovery can be used along with conventional and alternative medical treatment and intervention and is compatible with and adaptable to all forms of religious and traditional cultural practices.
Food categories and general daily proportions for persons living in a temperate climate. Because each person has different backgrounds and health conditions, proportions and ingredients of each person's diet will differ. Here are some basic standard recommendations for persons living in a temperate climate:
Whole Cereal Grains
Approximately
40 - 60% by weight
- From brown rice to oats to millet and spelt, there are many different varieties of grains available. Traditionally the base of daily diet in cultures worldwide, whole grains are the most fundamental of human foods.
Vegetables
Approximately 20 - 30% by weight
- A variety of leafy vegetables, root vegetables, and round and ground vegetables are an important supplement to every meal. Rich in calcium, beta carotene and many other vital nutrients
Beans & Sea Vegetables
Approximately 5 - 10% by weight
- There are countless varieties of beans that are available to use, and they are an important in providing good quality vegetable protein to the daily diet. Sea vegetables have been eaten traditionally all over the world and are a great source of minerals.
Soups
- Soups are the most flexible dish, and may be made with grains vegetables, sea vegetables, grains, or beans, using a variety of seasonings.
For a more detailed look at the standard macrobiotic diet, download and view Macrobiotic Dietary Recommendations. Requires Adobe Acrobat; get it free!
