The phrase "number 7 diet" can be confusing because it does not correspond to a single, universally recognized eating plan. Instead, it refers to several distinct dietary approaches, each with a different purpose and set of guidelines. The most prominent definitions come from the medical community, in the form of the IDDSI Level 7 diet, and from macrobiotic philosophy, as seen in the Ohsawa Diet #7. Understanding the context is crucial for determining which dietary plan is being discussed.
The Medical Definition: IDDSI Level 7 Easy to Chew Diet
The International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) developed a framework for modifying food and liquid textures for individuals with chewing or swallowing difficulties. Within this framework, Level 7 is the standard for 'Regular' food, but it also has a subtype: 'Easy to Chew' (EC7). This is often the most common and medically-supervised version of a "number 7 diet." It is not intended for weight loss or detoxification but for safety and comfort while eating.
Characteristics of IDDSI Level 7 (Easy to Chew)
- Food Texture: Normal, everyday foods, but they must be soft and tender.
- Chewing Ability: Suitable for those who can chew soft foods without tiring easily, but who may have difficulty with tough textures.
- Testing Method: The food must pass the "Fork Pressure Test," meaning it can be easily cut or squashed with the side of a fork.
Foods to include
- Proteins: Tender, cooked meat and poultry (no gristle or bones), flaked fish, eggs, and soft legumes like beans and lentils.
- Dairy: Yogurt, cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, and ice cream.
- Fruits: Soft, peeled fresh fruits such as peaches, melons, and berries with small seeds. Cooked or canned fruits are also suitable.
- Vegetables: Well-cooked vegetables that are tender enough to mash easily.
- Grains: Moistened cereals, soft bread without tough crusts, and cooked pastas.
Foods to avoid
- Hard or Dry Foods: Raw vegetables, nuts, or dry crackers.
- Chewy or Fibrous Foods: Steak, chewy candy, and tough fibrous fruits.
- Crunchy Foods: Popcorn, crispy bacon, or chips.
- Sticky Foods: Peanut butter, dried fruit, or sticky rice.
- Foods with Seeds or Bones: Berries with large pips, or meat with bones.
The Macrobiotic Approach: Ohsawa's Diet #7
In the macrobiotic philosophy of George Ohsawa, a series of ten progressive diets was outlined, with Diet #7 being the most restrictive. This diet, also known as the "brown rice fast," involves consuming only brown rice and water, sometimes with small amounts of salt or sesame seeds, for a short period (typically no more than 10 days). The goal of this extreme regimen is to spiritually and physically purify the body and mind, based on the macrobiotic principles of yin and yang.
Characteristics of Ohsawa's Diet #7
- Purpose: Spiritual and physical purification, not medical necessity.
- Food Composition: Highly restrictive, primarily consisting of brown rice.
- Duration: Short-term, usually capped at around 10 days due to its severely limited nature.
- Safety: Not medically endorsed and poses significant risks of nutrient deficiency if followed for too long.
The Historical Context: USDA's "Basic 7"
For a historical perspective, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) introduced the "Basic 7" food groups in 1943 during World War II. This was a food guide, not a restrictive diet, designed to help Americans manage nutritional intake amidst wartime food rationing. This historical reference is distinct from modern diet plans but may still contribute to the general usage of "number 7 diet." The seven food groups were: green and yellow vegetables, oranges/tomatoes/grapefruit, potatoes/other fruits and vegetables, milk/milk products, meat/poultry/fish/eggs, bread/flour/cereals, and butter/fortified margarine.
Comparison: IDDSI Level 7 vs. Ohsawa Diet #7
| Feature | IDDSI Level 7 (Easy to Chew) | Ohsawa Diet #7 (Brown Rice) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Medical; ensures safety for people with chewing problems. | Spiritual and physical cleansing; follows macrobiotic philosophy. |
| Food Composition | Normal, soft, and tender foods from all food groups. | Brown rice and water only (sometimes with salt). |
| Duration | As long as medically necessary. | Short-term (up to 10 days) due to high restriction. |
| Target Population | Individuals with temporary or permanent chewing difficulties. | Followers of macrobiotic philosophy; self-initiated. |
| Nutritional Risks | Low risk when supervised, ensures balanced intake. | High risk of nutrient deficiency and side effects. |
Important Considerations and Risks
Before undertaking any diet plan, especially a restrictive one, it is vital to consult a healthcare professional. The potential risks vary significantly between the medical and macrobiotic versions of a "number 7 diet."
- Ohsawa Diet Risks: Following a diet of only brown rice and water for an extended period can lead to serious nutrient deficiencies, electrolyte imbalances, and significant metabolic shifts. Side effects can include constipation, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, and potential kidney issues due to high salt intake in some interpretations. This diet is not suitable for pregnant women, nursing mothers, or children and should be approached with extreme caution, if at all.
- IDDSI Level 7 Considerations: This diet is medically supervised and designed for patient safety, so the risks are related to non-compliance or incorrect food preparation. It is not intended for weight loss and must be followed as prescribed by a dietitian or speech-language pathologist to ensure adequate nutrition.
Conclusion
The phrase what is a number 7 diet? has no single answer, making it a source of potential confusion. The most common modern interpretations are the medically-defined IDDSI Level 7 Easy to Chew diet and the highly restrictive macrobiotic Ohsawa Diet #7. The IDDSI version is a safe, medically-supervised diet for those with chewing difficulties, while the Ohsawa version is an extreme and potentially risky cleansing practice with no basis in modern nutritional science. The historical USDA "Basic 7" serves as a reminder of how food classification has evolved. Always consult a medical professional before starting any new diet to ensure it is appropriate and safe for your individual health needs.
For more information on the IDDSI framework and its various levels, you can visit the official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is a number 7 diet a weight loss plan? Answer: No, the term refers to multiple concepts. The IDDSI Level 7 is a medical diet for chewing problems, while the macrobiotic version is a short-term cleanse. Neither is a sustainable or healthy long-term weight loss plan, and the Ohsawa version is particularly risky for weight management.
Question: How is the IDDSI Level 7 diet different from a normal diet? Answer: The IDDSI Level 7 Easy to Chew diet focuses on normal, everyday foods but specifies that they must be soft and tender, omitting hard, crunchy, or chewy textures. This is to ensure patient safety and ease of chewing for those with specific medical needs.
Question: What are the main risks of the Ohsawa Diet #7? Answer: Risks include severe nutrient deficiencies, digestive issues like bloating and constipation, potential kidney stress due to high salt intake, and general fatigue. It is not a medically endorsed or safe long-term diet.
Question: Can anyone follow the Ohsawa Diet #7? Answer: No, the Ohsawa Diet #7 is not safe for everyone and should not be attempted by pregnant or nursing women, young children, or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions without qualified guidance.
Question: How can I tell which "number 7 diet" is being referred to? Answer: Context is key. If the conversation involves chewing problems, dysphagia, or hospitals, it is likely the IDDSI Level 7. If it refers to macrobiotics, cleansing, or is highly restrictive, it's probably the Ohsawa Diet #7.
Question: Is the historical USDA 'Basic 7' diet still relevant today? Answer: The 'Basic 7' is no longer a current nutritional guideline in the US. It was replaced by more modern frameworks like the food pyramid and now MyPlate. It is only relevant for historical reference.
Question: Who should I consult before starting a "number 7 diet"? Answer: You should always consult a doctor or a registered dietitian before starting any new diet, especially if it is restrictive or related to a medical condition. A professional can help determine the safest and most effective approach for your health needs.
