A fruitarian diet is a type of raw food diet that focuses on the consumption, of fresh, raw, unprocessed ingredients. It is typically vegan, meaning that it excludes all types of meat, eggs dairy products, gelatin and honey. Advocates of this diet believe that it provides optimal nutrition for your body, while minimizing the ingestion of toxins from commercial pesticides, fertilizers, flavor enhancers and preservatives.
Fruits
As its name suggests, a fruitarian diet is primarily composed of raw fruits. All types of fruit, including kiwi fruit, berries, grapefruit, watermelon, apples, citrus fruits, bananas, pears, tomatoes and avocados are permissible under this diet. These foods should not be subjected to heat above 114 degrees F to preserve the nutrients, enzymes and flavors of these foods. Choose organic versions to minimize your consumption of toxic chemicals.
Vegetables
All types of organic, raw vegetables, including carrots, celery, spinach, lettuce, onions and peppers are acceptable under the fruitarian diet. These foods provide a wealth of vitamins and nutrients necessary for proper mental and physical function. Raw vegetables also provide dietary fiber, which may improve digestion and lower blood cholesterol.
Nuts and Seeds
Include raw nuts and seeds, such as sunflower seeds, pistachios, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, macadamias and hazelnuts. These foods provide protein and healthy fats in the fruitarian diet. Like raw vegetables, they also supply dietary fiber. Avoid purchasing canned or packaged nuts, which are typically roasted and flavored with salt or sugar.
Sprouts
Numerous foods, such as broccoli, garbanzo beans, alfalfa, mung beans, peas, black beans, clover and radishes can be sprouted by soaking them in water for up to 48 hours, then allowing them to dry at room temperature. Sprouts are abundant sources of vitamins and minerals, and may contain these nutrients in higher concentrations than the foods they come from. Avoid tomato and potato sprouts, which contain poisonous chemicals.
References
- "The Fruitarian Diet"; Hereward Carrington; 2005
- "Your Natural Diet: Alive Raw Foods"; T.C. Fry and David Klein; 2004
- Food Reference: All About Sprouts
Member Comments