A macrobiotic lifestyle (Gr. for "big life," or "long life") can be defined as "the art of living while being conscious of the polar principles that govern the universe." This is in reference to the ancient Chinese and East Asian concept that the world can be understood in terms of the two opposite, yet complementary, forces, Yin and Yang.

People who choose the macrobiotic lifestyle generally strive to observe these forces in their everyday lives and use this as a key for obtaining balance, harmony and happiness, both physically and mentally. This lifestyle entails careful selection and preparation of food, and attention to one's physical activity and social contact.

Foods in the macrobiotic diet are associated with yin and yang properties. The goal of the diet is to maintain a balance between yin and yang. Yin foods include milk, cream, fruit juice, alcohol, and sugar. Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and hard cheeses are examples of yang food. The ideal foods in the macrobiotic diet are those which balance yin and yang. Brown rice, whole grains, beans, vegetables, fruits, and nuts are examples.

Many are attracted to the macrobiotic lifestyle because testimonials claim that it can cure cancer. Others claim that a macrobiotic diet has cured diabetes, hypertension, arterioslerosis, and forms of heart disease. Followers of the macrobiotic diet believe that degenerative diseases result from a yin and yang imbalance in the body and that the macrobiotic diet can cure this imbalance.