A raw food energy diet is based on the idea that food should be eaten in its whole, unprocessed, unheated and uncooked state. Raw foods have naturally-occurring enzymes that are easier on the digestive system. Eating food in its natural state feeds your body the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients it needs for energy. In "The Raw Food Detox Diet," author Natalia Rose gives a comprehensive list of benefits that includes weight loss, improved skin, increased energy, improved muscle tone and mental acuity. The diet eliminates hydrogenated fats, sugar, corn syrup, flour, salt and sugar commonly found in packaged and processed foods. On the raw food energy diet you will be consuming fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, raw nuts and seeds, and fresh herbs and spices.
Eliminating Sugar
Being on a raw food diet means eliminating sugars commonly found in packaged and processed foods. All fruits contain a wide spectrum of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, fiber and natural sugars. Fresh fruits are naturally sweet and liquid-filled energy foods. Buy organic from local farmer's markets whenever possible for the best-tasting fruit in season. Fresh fruit is best for making juices, smoothies, shakes and chilled raw fruit soups without any added sugars. You can also purchase frozen or unsulfured dry fruits for a different variety. Fruits to try are blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, mangoes, cherries and melons.
Boosting Fiber
According to "The Raw Food Detox Diet," the average American is not getting enough fiber in his diet. Fiber helps the digestive system break down food and provide the body with nutrients. It will also keep you feeling full with fewer calories to aid in weight loss. On a raw food energy diet, vegetables will be a source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. You will be eating a lot of vegetables which are low in both sugar and calories. When purchasing vegetables, try to buy locally and organic to avoid added pesticides and toxins. Vegetables to try include bell peppers, carrots, celery, cucumbers, white and sweet potatoes, spinach, squash and tomatoes.
Eating Complex Carbohydrates
The Western diet consists of baked and processed goods that offer simple carbohydrates and cause weight gain. Grains are considered complex carbohydrates and they help boost your energy levels and stabilize blood sugar levels. They provide B vitamins, potassium, phosphorous, zinc, selenium, manganese, magnesium and iron. Always purchase whole-grain or sprouted versions of pastas, cereals, breads and tortillas for a raw food energy diet. Since most grains can be difficult to digest, choose sprouted over raw grains. Raw oats and wheat germ are exceptions because of their versatility in recipes.
Reducing Saturated and Trans Fats
Americans are consuming too many saturated and trans fats which are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, according to authors Emma Palmcrantz and Irmela Lilja in "Raw Food: A Complete Guide for Every Meal of the Day." You should be consuming more of the "good fats" like monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats. Raw nuts and seeds contain monounsaturated fats which are considered good fats because they help lower cholesterol levels. Nuts and seeds have B vitamins for energy, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc. They contain moderate amounts of protein, fiber and carbohydrates. Raw nuts, seeds, and nut and seed butters are highly nutritional and have a high energy value. However, they are high in calories and should be eaten sparingly. Try almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, pecans, pine nuts, hazelnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, walnuts, and raw almond and cashew butters.
Reducing Sodium
High-sodium foods like frozen and packaged foods can lead to heart disease and diabetes. Herbs and spices are used abundantly in the raw food energy diet to add flavor to common foods without the added sodium. If eaten in quantity, they also add vitamins and minerals to the diet. Purchase organically grown fresh and dried herbs. You may also choose to grow your own fresh herbs in a garden or in pots. This ensures that your herbs and spices are not grown with toxic substances such as herbicides, pesticides, sulfur gas and other chemicals. You can purchase herbs and spices dried as well. These can last several months on the shelf. Try basil, cayenne, chives, cinnamon, ginger, mint, nutmeg, parsley and pepper to enhance the flavor of raw foods.
References
- "Raw Energy"; Stephanie Tourles; 2009
- "Raw Food Detox Diet : The Five-Step Plan for Vibrant Health and Maximum Weight Loss"; Natalia Rose;2006
- "Raw Food Life Force Energy"; Natalia Rose; 2007
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