Macrobiotic Diet [Paperback]

Michio Kushi (Author), Aveline Kushi (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 15, 1993

A COMPREHENSIVE INTRODUCTION TO THE NUTRITIONAL AND ECOLOGICAL PRINCIPLES OF A BALANCED, NATURAL WAY OF EATING.

Since its original publication, Macrobiotic Diet has become the bible for people interested in a healthy way of eating centered around whole, grains, fresh vegetables, and other whole, unprocessed foods.

This completely revised and updated edition offers a basic, readable presentation of the nutritional and ecological principles behind the macrobiotic diet. This book explains the foods and cooking techniques that are central to the macrobiotic approach to eating, and it demonstrates how the diet can be used to lose weight, to increase energy levels, to prevent and treat disease as well as to promote psychological health. Specific dietary adjustments and modifications are suggested according to gender, age, and level of activity to help optimize the overall effects of a whole-grain based diet.

This new edition of Macrobiotic Diet is expanded to include information on natural foods that have recently become available; the latest research on cancer and diet; AIDS and diet; the U.S. government's landmark report on Diet and Health; and the China Health Study; as well as a wealth of information on the impact of our dietary choices on the earth's environment.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

MICHIKO and AVELINE KUSHI are the leaders of the international macrobiotic community. Founders of the Kushi Foundation and One Peaceful World, they have guided thousands of individuals and families to greater health and happiness.

ALEX JACK is co-author of The Cancer Prevention Diet, The Book of Macrobiotics, Food Governs Your Destiny, and Amber Waves of Grain.

Product Details

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Japan Publications; Rev Enl edition (February 15, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 087040878X
• ISBN-13: 978-0870408786
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #576,294 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

75 of 87 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Larger than Life, September 16, 2000

By 

Marina Livis (Pittsburgh, PA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Macrobiotic Diet (Paperback)

Macrobiotics first had its roots in America when Michio and his wife, Avelin came to this country in the 1950's with a vision that was "larger than life". Macro-bio-tics is exactly that. And the Macrobiotic Diet, as described in this book (among the many that exist today) is one that doesn't just center around the do's and don'ts of proper eating. It is a lifestyle; it is a way to think about one's body, mind, and soul. When the macrobiotic principles of balance and nutrition are combined with yoga practice and meditation, the result is unity and wholeness. The circle is complete. Michio Kushi does not attempt to burden the reader with instructions on what is good and what is bad. Although some novices to this practice may run into the mistake of treating his "prescriptions" as limits in themselves, the book is meant to describe additions that can be made to one's already existing diet, instead of just pointing out that dairy and meat are "no no's". Though the macrobiotic approach may intimidate or seem too strict at first, it is actually very flexible and open. Otherwise, how can one expect to develop an open mind by following a diet that is limiting and rigid? The other critical point I'd like to note is, however comprehensive the text, passive reading will never substitute for the magic and connection of actually PRACTICING macrobiotics with close friends and family members, or other people familiar with the approach that would be willing to serve as a guide. Never think that you must walk this road alone. The energy you get from macrobiotic cooking should be a source of personal freedom and inspiration that carries you forward and brings you closer to people. One of the principle underlying ideas of macrobiotics is that the food you eat partially determines who you are--thus, in offering explanations for some of the ways to observe the macrobiotic diet, Michio talks about the chemistry behind the kinds of foods you would eat and how, depending on how yin or yang they are, that may affect your behavior and even personality. Thus, my advise is to use macrobiotics to heal yourself of any tensions, stresses, or aggressivity (if you feel them) by "linking" yourself with others who follow this practice in hopes of speaking the same language and leading a more peaceful life.

thank you very much for this opportunity to share,

2.0 out of 5 stars Not a good starting point., January 16, 2012

By 

Emily - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Macrobiotic Diet (Paperback)

I bought this book for my mom and she says that it isn't a good starting point for readers new to this type of lifestyle.
She claims that it is informative, and that it talks greatly about the spiritual aspect of this lifestyle, but she found it harder to get into then other books she's read on the subject.

4 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Macrobiotic, August 26, 2009

By 

Jay Weaver "Diet Explorer" (Catonsville, Md.) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Macrobiotic Diet (Paperback)

This is an excellent book that tells it like it is. It does an excellent job of relating what you eat to the status of your health.