My macrobiotic counseling work began after I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and healed myself through macrobiotic practice—which is not just about food, but a way of living.
After completing Levels 1–3, I continued my studies in an intensive counseling program at the Kushi Institute.
I later worked at Erewhon Natural Foods, where I offered weekly cooking demonstrations, taught classes, prepared staff meals, so they could experience what macrobiotic food tastes like—and how it can support their health and mood. I also spoke daily with customers seeking health guidance.
Looking back, I am not sure how I did it—but I always did my best.
Over the years, I have become very used to offering guidance and sharing what I have learned. Through my work, not only clients but also friends, neighbors, and students have often asked me for health advice.
I do not know how many people I have supported, and I do not know how many truly practiced what I shared.
Recently, a few people close to me asked for help.
As I was writing detailed recommendations, I realized that instead of offering the same guidance repeatedly in private, I could share it here—so that those who are ready may benefit.
This is caring guidance, without attachment, from me to anyone who needs and wants to practice a macrobiotic life as I do.
Leg Swelling and Constipation After Chemotherapy
These are common side effects of chemotherapy and medication.
Leg swelling may indicate that the kidneys are under strain. Constipation reflects stress on the digestive system.
Recommendations
These teas may support kidney function and help ease constipation.
Drink:
- 1 cup before breakfast
- 1 cup in the afternoon between meals
If constipation becomes severe, cassia seed tea (Habu tea) may be helpful.
For swollen legs:
- Foot baths
- Baths with sea salt
- Gentle massage and body care
Weakness After Chemotherapy — Rebuilding Strength
Kimpira Root Vegetable Soup (2–3 times per week)
1. Chop very fine equal amounts of burdock root, carrot, and lotus root.
2. Lightly brush the bottom of a pan with sesame oil and heat over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, sauté the burdock for 2 to 3 minutes, adding a pinch of sea salt.
3. Layer the lotus root and carrots on top of the burdock. Cover all vegetables with purified water, bring to a boil, lower the flame, cover, and simmer for a long time (30~40 minutes) until vegetables are very soft.
4. Mix sweet white miso and dark 3-year-old barely miso in a half-and-half ratio, and dilute in some of the soup broth.
5. Slowly add enough miso mix to achieve a good taste for you (not too salty, please).
Koikoku (Whole Carp Soup)
A whole carp (as fresh as possible – ask the fish market to remove the bitter gallbladder and thyroid and leave the rest of the fish intact, with all scales, bones, head, and fins. If you must remove them yourself, place the carp on a fish cutting board to remove the thyroid and gallbladder. If the carp has roe, it must also be removed.
1. Chop the fish into large 2-to 3 –inch slices, including the head, scales, fins, and bones. The eyes may be removed if desired. Set these aside.
2. Wash and chop burdock into very thin slices or matchsticks. The amount of burdock is the same volume as that of carp. Sauté the burdock in oil for a few minutes, or water-sauté if needed.
3. Tie used bancha twigs or stems (about 1 cup) in cotton cheesecloth to make a tea bag as big as a tennis ball. Layer the tea bag on top of the burdock and place the chopped fish on top. The tea twigs will help soften the bones while cooking.
4. Add enough liquid to cover all ingredients. Use approximately 1/3 bancha tea and 2/3 spring water. Cover with a heavy lid or pressure cooker lid. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat. If boiling, simmer for 2 hours or longer; if using a pressure cooker, simmer for 1 to 11/2 hours or longer.
5. While cooking, the burdock and carp neutralize each other, and the bones of the fish become very soft. When almost cooked, bring down the pressure, if necessary, and remove the lid. Add miso dissolved in water to season to taste, as you would for regular MISO SOUP.
6. Add 1 tablespoonful of juice from freshly grated ginger and mix well. Cover and simmer for another 5 minutes on a low flame. When seasoning with miso, you may need to add some water if the soup is too thick.
7. Serve with the cooking liquid. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
* Have a small bowl of this preparation every day for 3 days. Save leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer for future use, then reheat for 10 to 15 minutes before eating.
* If a carp and burdock are unavailable, trout or other white-meat fish may be substituted for carp, and carrot for burdock. Cook for 1 to 11/2 hours. But the effectiveness of this preparation is less.
* It is better to use twigs (Kukicha) that have already been used, since fresh twigs (Kukicha) can impart a bitter taste to the dish.
On Medication and Side Effects
A different friend asked about possible side effects of several medications.
Examples include:
- Amlodipine (blood pressure)
- Atorvastatin (cholesterol)
- Levothyroxine (thyroid support)
Each of these medications may have side effects, including digestive discomfort, muscle pain, or changes in mood and energy.
Even when something is considered “not common,” individuals may still experience it.
It is important to:
- Pay attention to your own body
- Ask questions
- Stay informed
A Broader Perspective
Over time, I have observed that many health conditions are influenced by:
- Busy lifestyles
- Excess stimulants (food and drink)
- Ongoing mental and emotional stress
We may be in a stage of life where the body is asking us to slow down—yet many continue to push forward.
General Food Suggestions
- Increase fiber-rich vegetables
- Include easily digestible protein such as beans
- Use prepared organic beans if needed (for convenience)
https://store.edenfoods.com/search.php?search_query=beans
- Eat calming vegetables such as:
- Napa cabbage
- Bok choy
- Kabocha squash
- Consider gentle herbal teas:
- Lemon balm
- Nettle
- Mugwort
And also:
- Rest
- Gentle movement
- Massage or acupuncture
- Even a short nap
My Personal Experience
After chemotherapy, I was prescribed medication for bone density.
I experienced side effects, although they were described as “not common.” After requesting a change, I tried another medication and again experienced side effects.
At this time, I have stopped medication and am observing how my body responds.
Previously, I also experienced strong reactions to medications during chemotherapy.
These experiences remind me that each body responds differently.
I have also seen this with my mother, who gradually began taking multiple medications. Over time, she experienced many symptoms without realizing they were side effects.
A Final Thought
Medication may be necessary in some situations.
However, it is important to remain aware that:
- All medications have potential side effects
- The more that are taken, the more complex the effects may become
Listening to your body is essential.
I share this for those who are ready to receive—not only to ask.
I hope this may support you in your own way.
With care,
Sanae❤️
