So, why would someone explore the raw foods experience? There are numerous reasons. Some may go in with the intention of a short term mini-detox or cleanse emphasizing fresh, raw foods and beverages, and feel so energized that they choose to continue. Others may already follow a plant-based diet of cooked foods, and opt to boost their wellness with an infusion of nutrients and enzymes from raw foods. Yet other people may have serious health issues, and seek out the purest possible diet in a desperate attempt to salvage their wellness. One retreat that has long catered to these needs is the renowned Hippocrates Institute in Florida: http://hippocratesinst.org/
One fascinating aspect to eating raw for any reasonable period of time is the changes you’ll almost inevitably experience. There’s an undeniably cleansing effect to these beautiful foods, bursting with nutrients, phytochemicals, fiber, enzymes and healthy fluids. Your body literally can’t help but respond.
Prepare for a wonderful, if occasionally challenging, journey. That’s because your experience is partially determined by your previous diet and general state of health. Depending on where you fall in that spectrum, you may experience some detox symptoms, from mild headaches to frequent (cleansing) bowel movements, all of which are part of your healthy transition. Perseverance is the key!
Numerous studies show that cooking causes a significant decrease in the nutritional profile of most foods. Heating food beyond 118 degrees Fahrenheit damages crucial enzymes and decreases the potency of natural vitamins/minerals. A major key to optimal health is deriving the maximum level of nutrients possible from the foods you eat. Consuming raw food is the obvious solution!
Eating cooked food (especially acid-producing meats), on the other hand, takes a heavy toll on your body’s enzyme reserves, whereas raw food is highly alkaline and dense with natural live enzymes. Why not reserve your metabolic enzymes for detoxification, tissue growth and repair, and assimilation of nutrients, not to mention cell production, growth, and rejuvenation instead?
What if you go part raw? That’s cool too! Just bear in mind, when you do opt for cooked food, it’s wise to supplement digestive enzymes. How about this? Start with 30% raw, knowing that to obtain impressive results that you’ll feel on many levels, at least 70% raw is an ideal goal.
No matter how you proceed, it’s your journey! so why not seek a beautifully healthy, radiant and energized destination?
