A macrobiotic diet (or macrobiotics), from "macro" (large) and "bios" (life), is dietary regimen that involves eating grains as a staple food supplemented with other foodstuffs such as vegetables and beans, and avoiding the use of highly processed or refined foods. Macrobiotics also addresses the manner of eating by recommending against overeating and requiring that food be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. Although it is frequently presented as a means of combating cancer, this is not supported by the medical evidence. The American Cancer Society recommends against using the diet as an exclusive or primary means of treatment.