According to the National Cancer Institute, one-third of all cancer deaths are related to the foods that we eat. What you eat can help or hurt you, and eating a wide variety of foods is generally recommended for good health. There are claims and controversies surrounding the macrobiotic diet and its potential for preventing cancer and promoting good health.
History
The macrobiotic diet was developed by Japanese philosopher George Aohsawa. His teachings were based on heal through proper diet and and natural medicine. The word "macrobiotic" comes from Greek roots and means "long life." He also sought to integrate Zen Buddhism and keep the diet simple and free of toxins.The original diet included ten stages, and each stage became more restrictive. The final stage included only brown rice and water.
Diet
The macrobiotic diet is mainly a vegetarian one. It consists of 50 to 60 percent organic whole grains and 20 to 30 percent vegetables. In addition, small amounts of soups, beans, sea vegetables, white meat and fish are allowed. Fruits and nuts can be included on an occasional basis. The vegetables and grains are always in cooked form. According to the American Cancer Society, there are some facets of the macrobiotic diet that are healthy for cancer patients.
Foods to Avoid
Specific foods are eliminated from the macrobiotic diet, such as potatoes, peppers, eggplant, asparagus, spinach and avocados. Mayonnaise, tea, coffee and red meat are also on the do-not-eat list. The current version of the diet has some flexibility, but discourages dairy products, meats and refined sugar.
Claims
Those entrenched in this diet and way of life believe that following a macrobiotic diet can prevent many illnesses as well as cure them. Some feel the diet can cure cancer and create good health and harmony around the world. Dr. Anthony Sattilar, an anesthesiologist at Methodist Hospital, claims his macrobiotic diet is what cured his prostate cancer.
Summary
The American Cancer society has found there is no evidence that the macrobiotic diet can cure cancer in humans. They strongly urge people to not use this diet as an exclusive means of cancer treatment. It is lacking in some vitamins and minerals that support body health.
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