A raw food diet is primarily made up of uncooked, unprocessed foods, according to Rita Romano, author of "Dining in the Raw." Because of the dangers of consuming raw meats, eggs and dairy products, raw diets are typically vegan. Romano and other nutrition professionals believe that a raw food diet offers more nutrients than diets that focus on cooked foods, and that this diet may help the body naturally rid itself of harmful toxins. Check with your doctor before beginning a raw food detox diet.
Organic Vegetables
Raw, organic vegetables are staples of a raw food diet, according to Romano. These foods provide nutrients such as vitamin A, calcium, vitamin C and folate. Vegetables are also rich sources of dietary fiber, which helps the body eliminate waste. Choose a variety of fresh, organic vegetables such as broccoli, artichokes, carrots, squash, bell peppers and green, leafy vegetables.
Sea Vegetables
Sea vegetables are important parts of a raw food detox diet, according to Penni Shelton, author of "Raw Food Cleanse." Kelp, kombu and nori are among the most nutritious sea vegetables, and are commonly available in health food stores and Asian groceries in Western countries. These foods are abundant sources of vitamin K, iodine, magnesium, folic acid and calcium. They also supply B vitamins, including vitamin B12, which is not available through most raw vegan sources.
Organic Fruits
Organic fruits supply vitamin C, vitamin A, chromium, riboflavin, pyrodoxine and other essential nutrients for a raw food detox diet, according to Romano. Choose raw, organic fruits such as avocados, tomatoes, apples, grapefruits, kiwifruits and berries to obtain a broad range of nutrients.
Garlic
Raw garlic contains chemical compounds that lower blood cholesterol and fight illness and infection, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." Garlic also contains vitamin B6, manganese, vitamin C, selenium and calcium. This food may help increase circulation, helping the body to collect toxins from tissue and fat cells and deliver them to the kidneys, where they can be excreted as waste.
Dried Beans and Legumes
Dried beans and legumes, such as mung beans and chickpeas, can be soaked in water and sprouted, providing nutritious raw sprouts to add to a raw food detox diet. Sprouts contain concentrated vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, according to Romano.
References
- "Dining in the Raw"; Rita Romano; 1992
- "Raw Food Cleanse"; Penni Shelton; 2010
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
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