Raw Diet Plan

Raw diet plans are centered on eating living, uncooked and raw foods. A raw diet usually consists of nuts, fruits, grains, vegetables, sprouted seeds and legumes. While some raw diet advocates are strict vegetarians others will still consume fish and poultry. According to thebestofrawfood.com, there are numerous health benefits attributed to eating raw foods: weight loss, increased energy, improved immune system, healthy skin, long lifespan, improved sex life and reduced risk for heart disease.

What is Raw Food

The idea behind raw food is that you are eating living enzymes that improve your overall health. A food is raw if it is unprocessed, uncooked and organic. Make sure your food is free from preservatives and pesticides and hasn't been pasteurized or cooked at temperatures over 118 degrees Fahrenheit. Thebestofrawfood.com also states that cooking food destroys the enzymes needed for improved digestion and most vitamins in it. Look for foods that are labeled organic or raw when grocery shopping. You can buy many whole foods in their organic/raw form.

Typical Day

Pick foods that fit the raw food plan that you like. There are numerous options that will keep your diet packed with variety. Remember to use only raw and organic foods. Below is an example:

Breakfast: Fruit smoothie made with two bananas, 2 cups strawberries, four kiwis and cup organic coconut milk.

Lunch: Salad of various greens, lemon juice, dried cranberries, goat cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers and sunflower seeds.

Dinner: Vegetable soup made from blended avocado, tomatoes, carrots, strawberries and bananas.

Snacks: If you feel hungry in between meals have a small fruit cup, yogurt or nuts.

Food Safety

During the initial phases of a raw diet plan you may experience detoxification symptoms. These symptoms can include headache, nausea, fatigue and irritability. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience acute symptoms that could be linked to food poisoning such as vomiting and diarrhea.

Raw foods are void of preservatives and will spoil much faster than typical foods. Always store your fruits and vegetables in airtight containers or perforated plastic bags in the crisper drawer in your refrigerator. Check your food daily for spoilage.