Detox diets are also known as cleansing diets intended to rid the body of accumulated toxins from your environment, dietary habits and chemicals used. A raw vegetable diet is one type of detox diet that assists in the elimination of toxins and waste products. This diet involves the consumption of a plant-based diet of raw vegetables that have not been cooked in any method. Consult with a physician before initiating this or any other dietary plan that may negatively affect your health.
Raw vs. Cooked
A detox diet that consists of eating vegetables raw is believed to provide additional health benefits vs. cooked foods. According to "Arthritis Today," water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins B and C, are lost during cooking. Additionally, the cooking process may break down enzymes that are naturally present in many foods that assist in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Inadequate enzyme intake from foods typically leads to common digestive upsets, including bloating, flatulence and constipation, as well as weight gain and nutrient deficiencies.
Detox With Vegetables
Raw vegetables form the foundation of a detox diet as they are low in calories, have little to no fat and no added sugars. As a result, they do not add additional toxins to the body, causing the digestive system and filtering organs such as the kidneys and liver to work overtime. A detox is intended to give the body a chance to rest and heal from toxin overload. Vegetables are also rich in essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals that are needed for essential body functions, hormonal balance and skin health.
Fiber
Raw vegetables are a source of dietary fiber. Fiber is the undigested part of plants that moves through the body for elimination. During this process, fiber also sweeps up toxins, waste products and undigested food materials in the body to be eliminated. This helps maintain a healthy, regular digestive system and decreases health concerns such as constipation, bloating and fatigue. Fiber-rich vegetables to include as part of a raw vegetable detox diet include carrots, celery, bell peppers, mushrooms, leafy greens including spinach and kale, and asparagus.
Variation
Raw vegetable detox diets vary in the amount of raw foods you are expected to eat. Some diet plans allow for some cooked foods or those that have been lightly cooked. "The Raw Food Detox Diet" by Natalia Rose is based on five levels or phases in which dieters select the most appropriate level for them. Level 1 is the most strict with all raw foods throughout the day, while level 5 allows for one cooked meal daily with the inclusion of fish, chicken, eggs and goat cheese. A sample meal may be steamed vegetables with roasted chicken and a raw vegetable salad.
References
- Arthritis Today: Is Raw or Cooked Food Better?
- Every Diet: Raw Food Detox Diet
- "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Eating Raw"; Mark Reinfeld, Bo Rinaldi & Jennifer Murray; 2008
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