Topic: Diets Decoded

Here’s what I (thought I) knew about the macrobiotic diet: a) It’s a lot like veganism, b) except you’re supposed to avoid “nightshade” vegetables like potatoes and eggplant, and c) there’s some sort of philosophical component to it. Turns out, however, that while the macrobiotic diet emphasizes whole foods and ample veggies, macrobiotic eaters aren’t necessarily vegan, or even vegetarian. To learn more about macrobiotic eating, I turned to nutritionist Jonathan Bechtel, owner of the health supplement company Health Kismet. Bechtel says macrobiotics is a “fantastic diet if done well,” and “adoption is easier than one might presume with the right information.” Oh yeah? Well, then, let’s get informed. More »