Why Are People Talking About A Raw Food Diet?

Just like the vegan diet did a few years back, now the raw food diet is gaining popularity as a natural detox solution.

Cutting out processed foods and reducing animal based foods allowed people to get back to more whole foods, allowing their bodies to function better.

The raw food diet is so old it’s new again, and it has some serious benefits that you should know about.

While following a raw food diet may afford you a number of health related benefits, it can also pose various challenges.

I’m Dr. JJ, a naturopathic doctor in Toronto, and today, we’re going to be taking a closer look at what the raw food diet is and some considerations to keep in mind if you’re going to follow it.

Keep reading to find out more, or watch my video about the raw food diet if you prefer.

What Is A Raw Food Diet?

A raw food diet is one where the food you eat is uncooked.

Food can only be heated to a maximum of 118 degrees Celsius, because that’s the point at which the nutrients in the food begin to die.

So “raw food” basically means that you’re not truly cooking anything that you’re eating.

Naturally, this means certain foods are out.

The general focus of a raw food diet is to consume whole, plant based ingredients that don’t require to be cooked.

Most people who follow a raw food diet are vegan as a result.

However, some will incorporate certain raw animal products.

Chicken, for example, is generally not safe to eat raw.

Sushi grade fish, on the other hand, is acceptable.

Aside from what we’ve already mentioned, some other common foods that are consumed as part of a raw food diet can include:

• Herbs
• Spices
• Plant based oils, like olive oil
• Raw yoghurt
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Raw nut butter
• Seaweed
• Raw eggs or dairy
• Raw meat or fish

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Why Would One Consider Going Raw?

Although some people adhere strictly to a raw diet, a good majority of people will follow it for only a set length of time.

Long enough to properly detox themselves before returning to a healthier version of their normal diets.

This is one reason summertime is popular for those going on a raw food detox.

That’s because with all the summer farmers’ markets that are available, it’s so easy to pick up something fresh and turn it into dinner for a few days.

The raw food diet is also common among those with digestive issues and colorectal issues.

This is because it helps to clean that system out effectively and gently.

Conversely, charred meats, cured meats and all the sulfites involved in eating cooked food can actually increase your risk of colon cancer.

What Does A Raw Food Lifestyle Look Like?

When you’re starting out, it makes sense to start small.

For instance, begin with incorporating only one fully raw meal into your day, and do that each day for a week.

The second week, after you’ve had a chance to get used to how it impacts your habits and your life, you up your game and incorporate a second raw meal every day.

After doing that for a week, then you can move up and make all three (or more) of your meals raw.

Try to sustain that for a week or two.

Be sure to incorporate either raw food bars or powders that deliver the protein that your body needs to function optimally.

Another good thing to keep an eye on are your fatty acids.

Make sure you’re getting enough of those naturally or through supplements to provide your body with much needed nutrients.

Benefits Of A Raw Food Diet

The top benefit is almost certainly that people report more regular bowel movements, and this is a good thing.

Many people also report that their skin will clear up after about a week of eating raw, making their complexions better than they’ve been in years.

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Another benefit is detoxification, although that can cause some nausea at first, as your body purges all of its toxins.

It’s also common to feel as if you have more energy, even though you may have a couple of days of initial sluggishness as your body recalibrates.

Some other possible benefits of a raw food diet can include:

• Increased nutrient and fiber intake
• Limiting intake of toxins found in processed foods
• Weight loss
• Reduced body fat
• Lower triglyceride levels

The raw food diet may provide some benefits, but generally speaking, eating a variety of both cooked and raw foods can help ensure you’re getting enough nutrients.

Is A Raw Food Diet Good For Everyone?

No, this diet is not for everyone.

Especially once you factor in that it’s a detox as well, which can have negative side effects for some populations.

For example, that means it’s not appropriate if you’re pregnant, undergoing chemotherapy, or immunocompromised.

Additionally, for the general population this diet can be safe in the short term.

However, following a raw diet long term can lead to health issues such as:

• Calorie and protein deficiency
• Nutrient deficiencies, like vitamin D and vitamin B12
• Increased risk of food related illnesses

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Following a raw food diet can also pose additional challenges.

It can make it harder to eat out and socialize with friends, limit your food choices, increase meal prep time, and can be more costly to buy quality raw food items.

If you’re considering going on a raw food diet, it’s important to work with a natural health practitioner to ensure your body is getting enough nutrients and functions optimally.

Questions? Ask Dr. JJ

If you’ve toyed with the idea of going raw, whether as a detox or a lifestyle choice, be sure to call me first so we can make sure you’re staying healthy.

There are a lot of considerations, and any one of age, overall health, or medical conditions, for example, can change your ability to adopt it successfully.

But with the right support, you can also see some significant benefits from a raw food diet.

Book your appointment with me, Dr. JJ, today.