1. The Benefits of Going Raw
A raw food diet can be a great way to aid detoxification of the body as well as boost weight loss. Raw foods are high in living enzymes, which are destroyed when foods are cooked about 106 degrees F. These living enzymes help your body to break down food, aiding both absorption of vitamins and minerals as well as the elimination of waste products. The results are a body the works more efficiently, burning fat and flushing toxins at a rapid rate. A raw food diet can be sustained for temporary periods of time to aid in weight loss, detox or simply increase energy or can be adapted as a lifelong change.
2. Cutting the Fat
A living food diet can also be the perfect answer for those suffering from high cholesterol and high blood pressure, or those concerned with the intake of unhealthy fats. Raw foods are naturally low in trans fats and saturated fats, while nuts, seeds and raw oils are high in healthy fats, such as omega 3 and omega 6. Additionally, raw foods are low in sodium and high in antioxidants, fiber and a wealth of vitamins and minerals that help your body stay strong and fight disease.
3. Just Say No to Chemicals
One of the greatest benefits of a raw food diet is the elimination of artificial sweeteners, refined sugars and flours, food additives, preservatives and other chemicals. However, it is important to recognize that fruits and vegetables are often heavily treated with chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Buy organic foods as often as possible to keep your body free and clear of harmful chemicals. If you simply cannot buy organic, soak your produce overnight and then scrub the surface before preparing your meals.
4. Have Fun in the Kitchen
A raw food diet does not mean that you have to eat the same salad for every meal. With a little creativity in the kitchen, you can create gourmet entrees and even make dishes that mimic some of your favorite cooked meals. Invest in a dehydrator, a great way to get a cooked feel to your foods. With a dehydrator you can dry fruits, make pizza and even enjoy raw bread. Spiral slicers and food processors can even allow you to create cheese substitutes from nuts and noodle-like dishes from carrots, squash, parsnips and more.
5. Getting Your B Vitamins
The lack of availability of B vitamins may be the biggest concern of a raw food diet, as they are mainly found in meats. Liquid amino acids are available in most health food stores and contain a number of essential proteins as well as B vitamins, and can be used as a condiment, as it is soy based and has a similar taste to soy sauce. Nutritional yeast is another delicious way to get your B vitamins and can be added to salads, soups, smoothies and more.
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