Raw Diet

Diet Research:  Raw Diet

Pros
  * Vitamins are not depleted as they can be in cooking.
  * Body gets natural health benefits from eating live "raw" food.
  * Very little prep time, clean-up time or cooking supplies needed.
  * Lowers the amount of free radicals found in cells, which lowers risk of disease.
  * Better for the environment, encourages compost usage & organic farming.
  * Save natural resources; no big equipment, factories, chain food suppliers needed.
  * Saves on money

Cons
  * Overeating acidic fruits eats away at tooth enamel.
  * Rely on dried fruit & excess causes digestive and flatulence (gas) problems.
  * High fat content with lots of avocados, nuts and oils.
  * Headaches, nausea, diarrhea, rashes & body odor (should only last few weeks).
  * Always feeling hungry; sometimes misunderstood - maybe lack of nutrients.
  * Lost of muscle tone if not regular exercise; weight below normal - undernourished.
  * Vitamin B-12 deficiency.
  * Some people don't feel the need to brush their teeth because the fruit cleans them.
  * Decrease in sex drive.

Humans are the only species on earth to heat their food.  And due to their diets and lifestyles choices, humans generally live less then half of their life span potential.  Consuming an abundance of fresh fruits and raw vegetables are very beneficial to the human body.  However, that is not the total answer to living a longer, healthier life.  Cooking increases the nutrients in some foods and makes digestion easier.  Flavor is enhanced and contamination is decreased with cooking.  Variety and balance, alkalizing and acidifying in moderation, safe cooking and raw foods are all needed for healthy eating.  No one food or single diet with a strict way of preparing, will give the human body all the necessary nutrients of sustaining life to its optimal potential.

Patricia