Enzymes which assist in digestion and absorption of the food are destroyed if food is heated to over 116 degrees F. Raw food diet is based on the use of uncooked and unprocessed plant food such as fruits, fresh vegetables, seed, grains, sprouts, dried fruits, nuts and other products.
For the most benefit possible of this diet, at least 75% of the raw and living components must be ingested.
Raw food diet is opposite to the conventional diet because it is low on saturated fats and components of hydrogenated oils. It has higher fibre content and it contains phytochemicals which are health promoting plant chemicals. Raw food diet has less fat, less calories. It is richer in potassium, folate and magnesium and has low sodium content.
Raw food has many good sides and benefits. It improves skin appearance and digestion. It reduces the risk of cancer, diabetes and heart attack and same time increases the energy levels and a healthy weight loss is another great benefit of this kind of diet.
Ingredients of Raw Food Diet
Eat natural, unprocessed and organic products and foods such as vegetables and fresh fruits, seeds, beans. Also you may consume products like seaweed, nuts, grains, dried fruits, legumes. Other permitted products are: purified water and young cocoanut milk.
Allowed cooking techniques
Heat should not reach 116 degrees F; temperature that high destroys the enzymes and the beneficial properties of raw food. Sprouting of beans, seeds and grains make them softer and easier to eat at the same time giving an extra flavour and variety. Nuts and dried fruits can be soaked for example. You can add some variety to the diet with extracting a juice from fruits and vegetables and blending it with other products. Use your imagination and you’ll see that eating healthy isn’t boring at all.
Precautions
For people who have been previously used to diets rich in meat, caffeine or sugar, raw food diet can cause some mild but totally harmless reactions. They may experience cravings for a few days, headaches or nausea. Raw food diet is not suitable for pregnant or nursing women or children. Also this diet is not suitable for persons suffering from osteoporosis and for anaemic people.
Raw food diet may be found to be deficient in vitamins B12, calories, proteins. It may be deficient in certain minerals such as calcium and iron. You may consult your physician for suitable supplements.
