Michio Kushi Cause of Death: How the Macrobiotic Guru Died of Pancreatic Cancer

Michio Kushi was a Japanese educator who introduced the macrobiotic diet to the Western world in the 1950s. He was widely regarded as a pioneer of natural health and holistic living. He wrote over 70 books, founded several organizations, and received many awards for his contributions to diet, health, and world peace. But how did he die? And what does his death mean for the macrobiotic movement?

The Diagnosis and the Treatment

According to Wikipedia¹, Michio Kushi died of pancreatic cancer on December 28, 2014, at the age of 88. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal forms of cancer, with a five-year survival rate of only 10%. It is often diagnosed at a late stage, when the cancer has already spread to other organs.

Kushi’s cancer was discovered in 2004, when he was 78 years old. He underwent surgery to remove part of his pancreas, spleen, and stomach. He also received chemotherapy and radiation therapy. He continued to follow a macrobiotic diet, but also incorporated some animal products, such as fish and eggs, into his meals. He also used some alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, herbs, and supplements.

The Controversy and the Legacy

Kushi’s diagnosis and death sparked a controversy among his followers and critics. Some questioned the effectiveness of the macrobiotic diet, which claims to prevent and cure cancer and other diseases by balancing the yin and yang energies of food. Others defended Kushi’s lifestyle and achievements, arguing that he lived a long and productive life despite his illness.

Kushi’s legacy is undeniable. He influenced millions of people around the world to adopt a healthier and more compassionate way of eating and living. He inspired many celebrities, such as John Lennon, Madonna, and Gwyneth Paltrow, to embrace macrobiotics. He also helped to establish the natural foods industry and the organic farming movement. He was a visionary who advocated for a peaceful and harmonious world.

Conclusion

Michio Kushi cause of death was pancreatic cancer, a disease that he fought for 10 years with conventional and alternative treatments. His death raised doubts and debates about the validity of the macrobiotic diet, which he promoted as a cure for cancer and other ailments. However, his death also highlighted his remarkable achievements and contributions to the fields of nutrition, health, and spirituality. He was a leader who changed the lives of many people and left a lasting impact on the world.