What Is a Macrobiotic Breakfast?
The macrobiotic diet is centered on a nutritionally holistic approach. There are several pieces to the macrobiotic philosophy, but the diet is basically vegetarian, focusing on whole grains and vegetables cooked over flame (not by electricity or microwave).
Time Frame
A macrobiotic breakfast should begin with drinking pure water or macrobiotic tea no later than 30 minutes before eating breakfast. Traditional breakfast will be a whole grain porridge with a small amount (no more than 1/2 teaspoon at first) of a whole-grain condiment such as sesame salt or shiso powder.
History
George Ohsawa developed the macrobiotic diet and philosophy as a way to bring optimal health through simplicity. The final stages of Ohsawa's original diet culminated in eating just brown rice or bread and water. Most modern macrobiotic diet counselors do not recommend this extreme stage. Nutritionist Michio Kushi revitalized and popularized the diet.
Types
A macrobiotic breakfast can be spiced up with any blanched (quickly cooked) dark leafy green or vegetable and tofu soup. A good macrobiotic tea rounds out the meal. Traditional breakfast foods like eggs, milk, cereal, and meats are not part of a macrobiotic diet.
Features
In addition to being a low-fat, high-fiber diet, the macrobiotic focus on raw food can increase the vitamin and mineral potential of your food. As a rule, vegetables lose some of their nutritional content when cooked. For breakfast, the meal should consist of 50% to 60% of whole grains, 25% to 30% of vegetables, and 10% to 25% of a protein such as beans, tofu, or tempeh.
Misconceptions
The macrobiotic diet is often recommended for people suffering from cancer, diabetes, and other illnesses. While it is possible that the diet may improve these conditions, there is no proof that any diet will cure them. There is also an assumption that macrobiotics will help a person answer all of his physical and spiritual questions. While a cleaner and more efficient body may help you think better, each person is different and spiritual enlightenment cannot be guaranteed by a diet.
Fun Fact
Many celebrities have practiced the macrobiotic philosophy, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, Barbra Streisand, John Travolta, Nicole Kidman, Joe Pesci, Yoko Ono, and John Lennon.
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