How Did the Macrobiotic Diet Begin?
The macrobiotic diet began when Sagen Ishizuka, a Japanese Army doctor, embarked on a study of Asian and Western medicine at the end of the 19th century. His conclusion was that a diet of whole and unrefined grains, particularly brown rice, along with vegetables was the diet most likely to promote health.HistoryDr. Ishizuka cured patients by prescribing a traditional Japanese diet based on brown rice and vegetables. The Shoku-Yo-Kail Association was formed in 1907 based on Dr. Ishizuka’s findings. Later, George Ohsawa joined the association and went on to successfully promote the macrobiotic diet in the West.DescriptionThe macrobiotic diet began as a diet consisting primarily of organic whole grains, locally grown produce and soups made of legumes, vegetables and miso (fermented soybeans). Meat, dairy products and processed foods are to be avoided. In addition, foods are categorized according to the Buddhist principles of yin and yang.Fun FactGeorge Ohsawa was the first to popularize t
