These are foods that we always try to keep well-stocked in our pantry. They form the basis of the way of eating that has kept our family healthy over the years. These are also the first and most important foods that I encourage my clients to incorporate into their way of eating. The combination of grains, beans, vegetables, seeds, nuts, and fruits provide the full range of nutrients we need for optimal health. Once you have incorporated these foods into your way of eating, you can continue to expand and create more variety in each category. All of the foods should be naturally and traditionally made and organic when possible– try to find stores dedicated to providing the highest quality foods.

In terms of the actual food breakdown, macrobiotics proposes the following split as a guide:

• 25% whole grains, such as brown rice, oatmeal, polenta, barley, pasta or buckwheat.
• 25% vegetables (well-cooked, lightly-cooked and raw salad)
• 25% bean and soy products
• 25% fruits, nuts and seeds

Other foods include sea vegetables, soups, fermented foods, mild beverages and sweets.

• Brown Rice and other whole grains
• Azuki Beans, Lentils, Chickpeas and other beans
• White, unrefined sea salt
• Barley and/or brown rice miso (at least 18 months old)
• Kombu and/or wakame seaweed
• Toasted Nori seaweed
• Umeboshi Plums and/or Olives
• Sauerkraut and/or Kimchi
• Daikon radish
• Napa Cabbage
• Dried Shiitake Mushroom
• Sesame, Pumpkin, or Sunflower Seeds
• Almonds, Walnuts, Peanuts, Pecans, and Pistachios
• Seasonal fruit
• Brown rice syrup, Maple syrup, and raw local honey
• Kukicha (bancha twig) Tea, Roasted Barley Tea, or Roasted Dandelion Root Tea

A macrobiotic diet and lifestyle should be adjusted from person to person to get optimum results. That is why consulting a macrobiotic specialist is essential. With over 45 years of experience, Denny Waxman is an accredited macrobiotic counselor ready to help you feel better through diet and lifestyle. Contact Denny Waxman to schedule a macrobiotic consultation session today.

For more interesting articles about nutrition, macrobiotics, and living a healthy lifestyle, please visit Denny’s macrobiotic blog.