Macrobiotic: The Risks Of The Strict Diet That Madonna Followed For Decades

Instead of cycling through different diets, Madonna found one that works for her and stuck with it for many, many years. During an October 2002 appearance on CNN's "Larry King Live," the pop icon confirmed that she was on a macrobiotic diet. Describing the philosophy behind the diet in her own words, Madonna said, "Macrobiotic means big life and it means getting the most of life — most life out of your food." The "Like a Virgin" hitmaker also described a typical dinner, saying, "Fish. Grains, some kind of grains. Some kind of cooked vegetable. Salad. Simple, but tasty." 

Now, the macrobiotic diet sounds simple on paper. At its core, it encourages people to primarily eat natural, organic foods with a special emphasis on whole grains. However, the diet seems more complicated when we consider that it eliminates or restricts several everyday foods, including meat, dairy, vegetables like potatoes and tomatoes, tropical fruits, caffeinated drinks, processed foods, foods containing added sugar, and foods with artificial ingredients. Additionally, folks following this diet are generally supposed to cook their food using steaming and sautéing, and without electricity.

With those heavy restrictions, some may find the diet unsustainable in the long run. The restrictions on dairy, meat, fruits, and veggies can also cause deficiencies in protein, iron, magnesium, calcium, and vitamins like D and B12. To top it off, some may find the diet is too low in calories to provide sustained energy throughout the day. Some may even argue that these drawbacks are signs that the diet will do more harm than good.

Madonna has apparently relaxed the macrobiotic diet's restrictions over time. In August 2018, Craig Smith, a personal trainer who worked with the Grammy winner for her 2015 Rebel Heart Tour, told The Sun UK that her daily diet at the time consisted of three square meals and three snacks, which were consumed every three to four hours. So, Madonna apparently knows that snacking isn't as bad as people think, as it can keep energy levels more stable and prevent overeating.

"Her diet consists of cold-pressed juices – her favourite is watermelon – protein bars, fruits, vegetables and grains like quinoa," Smith explained. "By eating smaller portions more regularly, Madonna boosts her metabolism and maintains her energy throughout the day." The macrobiotic diet notably encourages people to eat when they are hungry instead of following a rigid routine. However, it should be noted that most protein bars are considered processed foods, which are a no-no on the macrobiotic diet. 

Nevertheless, considering that Madonna has an impressive workout routine consisting of numerous cardio movements, it's understandable that she wants to fuel her recovery throughout the day. While functional nutritionist Pauline Cox analyzed the "Like a Prayer" singer's diet in a chat with The Sun UK, she said that the pop icon is apparently prioritizing foods that help her perform her best. Cox elaborated, "She eats complex carbohydrates — brown rice, beans and oats — for slow energy release." In addition to complex carbohydrates, protein can also help keep energy levels stable. Given how active Madonna has been through the decades, it's safe to say her diet seems well-aligned with her professional and personal goals.