RAW FOOD DIET
The Raw Food Diet is on the market in varying forms and in different names, but was first studied in the 1800’s by a biochemist who believed that the preservation of enzymes in food was the key to health. This type of diet is popular today because it has been embraced by Hollywood celebrities and proposes to address concerns that relate to current health issues. To maintain this diet completely, you must eat only raw foods, which include fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Raw fish is not recommended.
Foods Emphasized: Raw fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, seaweed, purified water, grains, freshly squeezed juice
Foods Discouraged: Processed foods or food cooked above 116°F
Premise and Guidelines: The Hollywood factor can always create buzz about new diets and even ‘comeback’ diets. Now, there is great interest again about the Raw Food diet. According to the originators of this diet, we should consume predominately raw and uncooked foods to allow the body to digest food more efficiently. Raw foods provide digestive enzymes that help each nutrient be absorbed properly in the body. Raw foodists do not believe in heating foods above 116°F because they feel it can destroy the natural enzymes and positive energy of foods.
The raw foods concept dates back to prehistoric times, when no method of cooking was available. This concept resurfaced when a biochemist examined the link between enzymes in uncooked food and the results on the digestive system.
Only unprocessed and uncooked foods are allowed on the Raw Foods Diet. It is extremely low-fat and can be low-calorie as well, which may be a primary reason for weight loss. The criticisms of this diet are that it is very low in total sources of protein, and can be nutritionally limiting. Another drawback is that the food sources can be expensive to obtain, as it is recommended that followers eat only organic foods. It is also difficult to follow when eating socially, not to mention the limited options in restaurants, where salads may be the only raw food available.