Is the raw food diet worth my time?
Asked by anonymous on Feb 05, 2009
in Alternative & Integrative Nutrition
I've heard a lot about the "raw food" diet, which means that over 75% of your food should be raw or not heated over 140 degrees. Being a health freak and a vegetarian, it's not that hard for me to only eat vegetables and fruits but I was wondering if it's healthy and if there's anything I should be worried about by only eating raw food. Also, are there any foods you would recommend?
Answer
A raw food diet is based entirely on fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and sprouted beans. The diet is low in fat and high in certain nutrients, but it lacks nutrition from animal foods, and so it must be carefully planned. Take care to avoid deficiencies of calories, protein, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, copper, and zinc. Eat vitamin B12 fortified soy milk and lots of sea vegetables for the nutrients they provide. It is also essential to take a multivitamin-mineral supplement every day. I cannot say if a raw foods diet is worth your time, but it definitely not for me. Read more about the raw food diet from the Guide to Alternative Medicine at About.com.
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