Wednesday 18 April 2018

Interesting Facts About A Raw Food Diet

By Melissa Foster


Cooking and processing foods can result in a loss of nutrients and the destruction of certain enzymes. Some people choose not to do this and to eat foods that have been processed in different ways such as dehydration, juicing, soaking, blending and sprouting. Eating a raw food diet often results in an increase in energy and loss of weight.

This eating style is believed to improve digestion as it increases the amount of dietary fiber consumed. The body becomes more alkaline than acidic, reducing inflammation. As foods move more quickly through the gut, they do not sit there and become fermented, causing bloating, gas and toxins to accumulate. Heart health benefits too because of weight loss and lowering of blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A less significant benefit but one which can make a difference to the appearance is a lovely, clear skin.

Foods that can be eaten include all fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, nut milks and butters, seaweed, sprouts, nuts and seeds. Cold-pressed olive and coconut oils, and fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi are popular. Some people eat raw eggs, meat and fish.

Cooked meats, fruits, vegetables and grains are not eaten by people following this way of eating. Refined flours, grains and sugars are also avoided which eliminates white rice, bread and sugary snacks. It's best to check labels on products. Sometimes products that may appear to be unrefined may have hidden ingredients.

A typical breakfast may consist of a green smoothie, soaked oats with berries or overnight oatmeal with nuts and fruits. Lunch may consist of a salad with avocado or figs and nuts. Dinner may come in the form of stuffed portabello mushrooms or zucchinni noodle pasta with basil and tomato sauce. It is even possible to make an uncooked pizza with a nutty buckwheat crust and a cheese made from nuts. Snacks include freshly squeezed juice, nuts, carrots and apples.

Transitioning gradually towards this lifestyle has a number of benefits. It can be quite intimidating to try and go all out right away. It takes a while to learn new methods of preparing food and stocking up on good recipes. Checking with a health practitioner is also important. Pregnant women, for example, may be advised not to eat this way.

Eating in this way means that weight usually drops off. This has many benefits but too much weight loss is unhealthy. It is also better to lose weight gradually than too quickly and its easier to sustain.

The challenge of eating in this way is to get enough protein, iron and vitamin B12. These nutrients are found in meat, eggs, fish and grains which are usually cooked. Dried foods and superfoods can be a very useful addition. Raisins, sun-dried tomatoes, cranberries, dates, chia seeds and Goji berries all pack nutritional punch. Uncooked treats using plenty of superfoods can be made using a food processor and a blender and then putting them in the fridge to chill.




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