You’ve probably come across the macrobiotic diet during your search for a diet to follow but don’t know what it is all about. This diet is mostly plant based that revolves around balance which can be achieved through following a vegetarian diet that is low in fat with heapings of macronutrients such as carbs, proteins, and fats. It should also have a variety of vitamins and minerals that come from plants too as this will give you better digestion and improve your overall well-being.

So what types of food belong in this diet? If you are planning on following this diet, you will need to include the following in your diet.

Fresh vegetables except nightshades

When it comes to macrobiotic diet, fresh vegetables should play a huge part in it as they are one of the best sources of vitamins, minerals, protein, and other essential nutrients. Think bok choy, scallions, broccoli, beets, cauliflower, cabbage, watercress, and even mushrooms just to name a few. Adding more of these ingredients to your diet can help enhance your immune system, boost your mental function, while strengthening your bones and muscles.

Tea

Another important addition to a macrobiotic diet is tea. One reason behind this is that tea is rich in antioxidants that can help protect your skin against possible damage caused by free radicals. Jasmine, green, oolong, herbal, black, dandelion, and bancha are just a few examples of teas that you can integrate into your diet.

Nuts and seeds

Macrobiotic diet also requires nuts and seeds to be part of the diet as they are packed with proteins and essential fats. Nuts and seeds can be eaten raw or they can be included in salads and soups. You will be surprised to find that these ingredients are perfect sources for providing you with the essential nutrients that you need for a balanced diet.

Miso or fermented food

You should also add miso or fermented foods to your diet because they are rich in probiotics that can help bring balance to your gut environment. When there is a healthy balance of bacteria in your stomach, you will be able to process the food that you have eaten so that the vitamins and minerals will be absorbed in your body better. There are other health benefits to be gained when you add fermented foods to your diet such as better eyesight, stronger bones, and even improved metabolism.

Unprocessed grains

Unprocessed grains like millet, amaranth, oats, rye, barley, and brown rice are important in the macrobiotic diet as they are rich in fiber which can stay in your belly for hours. You will find that unprocessed grains will help keep your blood sugar steady so that you will not experience any dips or spikes to your blood sugar levels. Switch to these options instead of white rice and you will find yourself having more energy compared to before.

Fresh herbs

Fresh herbs are fairly common in macrobiotic diet because they give life to various dishes. They are high in vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients. Skip iodized salt and add more fresh herbs to your meals and you will find that there is more flavor to your dishes this way. 

Choosing macrobiotic diet is one of the best ways for you to bring back the balance to your health. Focusing on a low fat but plant based diet is guaranteed to help raise your overall health. You will find that this is a more sustainable diet in the long run and one that will give you the best protection against diseases.