RAW food FAQs

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gathered a bunch of info from different sites to share with the family. Some of it may be repeats, some of it may be conflicting. that's what information gathering is all about. ~PB

------ taken from http://www.living-foods.com/faq.html --------------
What are Living and Raw Foods?
Raw and Living Foods are foods that contain enzymes. In general, the act of heating food over 116 degrees F destroys enzymes in food. (Enzymes start to degrade in as little as 106 degrees F). All cooked food is devoid of enzymes, furthermore cooking food changes the molecular structure of the food and renders it toxic. Living and raw foods also have enormously higher nutrient values than the foods that have been cooked.
What are Enzymes?
Enzymes assist in the digestion of foods. They are known to be the "Life-Force" and or "energy" of food.

From the dictionary:
Noun: Any of the various complex organic substances, as pepsin originating from living cells and capable of producing certain chemical changes in organic substances by catalytic action, as in digestion.

Why are Enzymes Important?
Enzymes are important because they assist in the digestion and absorption of food. If you eat food that is enzyme-less, your body will not get maximum utilization of the food. This causes toxicity in the body. (Can you guess why over 75% of Americans are overweight?)

Doesn't the acidic ph of the stomach destoy enzymes?
Viktorus Kulvinskas, one of the world's foremost and most experienced active researchers into enzyme nutrition has information showing then stomach acid merely deactivates food enzymes. The enzymes are then reactivated in the more alkaline small intestine. Many people who eat all raw foods, sense a world of healthful difference in our energy, digestion and connectedness with nature by eating enzyme-rich living foods. When we stopped eating cooked protein foods which require large secretions of stomach acid (which is not healthful for several reasons) our stomach doesn't produce much stomach acid. Many people who eat raw foods eat a low protein diet and are free from the stomach acid secretions and have much more energy and a lighter disposition.

Is there a difference between living foods and raw foods?
Living and Raw foods both contain enzymes. In living foods, the enzyme
content is much higher. Raw, unsprouted nuts contain enzymes in a "dormant" state. To activate the enzymes contained in almonds, for example, soak them in water for as just 24 hours. Once the almonds begin to sprout, the enzymes become "active" and are then considered living. In the context of this web site, the terms are used loosely.

Why eat only Organic Foods?
When juicing or eating foods, it is very important to choose to consume only organically grown produce. "Conventional" or "industrial" produce are grown with pesticides, herbicides, synthetic fertilizers, and other chemicals that are toxic and/or harmful to your body. Organic foods are grown without the use of these harmful substances, taste better, and are more nutritious.

Do I need to eat all organic to be raw?
No, you do not NEED to eat all organic to be raw. I personally reccomend eating as much organic food as possible. It has been shown that organic produce contains less pesticide and other toxic residues. In addition, it has been shown that organic food may taste better and contain more nutrition. I believe its better to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables in most any case.

Will rinsing wash off the pesticide from industrially grown produce?
Rinsing with cool water will remove some surface pesticide residue, but not the pesticide that was absorbed into the produce as it was grown. Some of the most severely tainted types of produce are strawberries and bell peppers. Some of the least tainted: carrots and avocados.

Is this a "new" fad diet or something?
Not at all! Consider the following: during the vast majority of our existence on this planet, what choices did we have for food? What COULD we have eaten before we discovered fire, tools and implements to kill animals? The original diet for us MUST have consisted primarily of vegetables, fruits, and nuts! What other choices did we have? Clearly, a raw, plant based diet is the main food staple throughout the vast majority of the history of Humankind! Before Humans started killing and eating dead animal carcass, we ate fruits, leaves, nuts, berries, etc...

Is this just another vegetarian or vegan diet?
Yes and NO! This is the ULTIMATE vegetarian/vegan diet. It should be the goal of all vegetarians, vegans and SAD - [Standard American Diet] eaters to eat raw. The benefits are out of this world! Once you embrace an all-raw and living food diet, you are more living, have more energy, better health, think more clearly, and become more in tune with your body! This type of diet even gives you a "competitive edge" over people that eat life-less food.

What is the difference between a raw/living foods diet and a vegetarian one?
Vegetarians and vegans believe in only eating a plant based diet.
Living and Raw Foodists believe in eating only an UNCOOKED, UNHEATED, UNPROCESSED and ORGANIC plant based diet.

What is a Living Foodist or Raw Foodist?
A person who eats 75% or more living/raw food.. The more, the better. Optimally one should eat 100% raw and living foods if it feels right for them.

Is a 100% living and raw food diet best?
That depends on the person. I believe life should not be about 100% raw food, but about 100% health. You can be "unhealthy" and eat 100% raw food, if you are not eating the correct raw foods. In addition, the stress that can be caused by "screwing up" or "falling off the wagon" can be worse than eating a high percentage raw food diet, with "better" cooked alternatives. I personally eat 99.999% raw foods.

Is there just one type of living/raw foodist?
There are many subcategories of living/raw foodists. Some include:

Fruitarian - People who consume mostly fruits.
Sproutarian - People who consume mostly sprouts.
Juicearian - People who consume mostly fresh juice.

Why would someone want to eat a raw and living foods diet?
There are many reasons why people eat a raw and living foods diet.

Health: Persons embracing this type of diet invariably experience improvements in their general physical and mental status, including more energy, better health, more energy <smile>, weight loss, detoxification, and a sturdier immune system that better resists and recovers from just about any kind of disease... and the list goes on...
Energy efficiency: Since you no longer have to cook, you don't waste electricity, and save the environment.
Since you eat organic agriculture, you help to save the planet. Most become more in-tune with their body; many report definite spiritual improvements.
No animal products are used, so the animals appreciate it.

What do raw/living foodists eat?
Raw and Living Foodist eat all fruits, vegetables, sprouts, nuts, seeds, grains, sea vegetables, and other organic/natural foods that have not been processed. In some instances, there are special ways to prepare the foods (example: most raw and living foodists soak/sprout nuts, seeds and grains before consuming them).

How can you tell if something is a raw/living food?
Most foods that have not been processed in any way, shape or form are raw and living foods (until cooked). Processed foods (canned, bottled or prepackaged) are most often adulterated, (changed from their original state) by heating, additives, preservatives, colorings, salt, and sugar. Don't think this is all for your benefit; the benefactor is the manufacturer's profit margin, NOT YOU. Try to purchase foods that are in their natural state.

What do raw and living foodists drink?
Water (purified water - never tap water), Freshly made juices (made with your own juicer - and consumed immediately), coconut milk (from a young coconut), are some of the liquids living and raw foodists drink. Most all drinks purchased at the store have been processed (Including: soda, bottled juices, coffee, alcohol, and most others) and are not included in a living / raw foodist diet.

Do raw and living foodists drink tea?
Some living and raw foodists will drink SUN TEA, which is tea brewed by the power of the Sun. Teas that contain boiling water are not considered raw. Many teas that are purchased in the store may have been processed at temperatures above 118 degrees. The best way is to grow your own herbs and dry them at a low temperature, and use them for sun teas.

Are certain raw foods better than others?
Yes. I believe one should focus on eating the majority of fresh fruits and vegetables. All other raw foods (such as nuts, seeds, etc) should be minimized. Fresher foods are always best. Ones that you grow yourself, or purchased at a farmers market, are much fresher than foods purchased in the grocery or health food store.

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Where do raw and living foodist get their protein?
The WHO (World Health Organization) says humans need about 5% of their daily calories to come from protein to be healthy. The USDA puts this figure at 6.5%. On average, fruits have about 5% of their calories from protein. Vegetables have from 20-50% of their calories from protein. Sprouted seeds, beans, and grains contain from 10-25% of their calories from protein. So if you are eating any variety of living plant foods, you are getting more than adequate protein. Numerous scientific studies have shown the daily need for protein to be about 25-35 grams per day. So if you ate 2,000 calories per day, and ate raw plant foods that had an average of 10% of their calories from protein, you would get 200 calories worth of protein, or 50 grams. This is more than adequate to support optimal well-being. Other studies have shown that heat treating a protein (such as with cooking) makes about half of it unusable to the human body. So raw plant food protein is even a better source than cooked plant foods or animal foods. There is still a huge, foolish, misguided idea that plant protein is not "complete". This is based on studies done on rats in the 1940's. This false conclusion was drawn before we discovered the bodies protein recycling mechanism and its ability to "complete" any amino acid mix from our bodies amino acid pool, no matter what the amino acid composition of a meal consumed. This false idea is still perpetuated by the meat and dairy industries, in an attempt to influence people to continue consuming their truly health destroying products.


-------- taken from http://www.rawguru.com/rawfoodfaq.html ---------
1. What is the raw food diet?
It is a lifestyle that supports eating only living and raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and seaweeds. Nothing is heated or cooked above 116 degrees F.

2. What is the easiest way for me to become "raw"?
The best way is to just ADD raw fruits and veggies to your daily diet. The more raw you add the less cooked you will eat. I also reccomend to read as much about raw foods as possible.

3. Where do you get protein on the raw food diet?
From green leafy veggies, srpouts, fruits, green juices, nuts, seeds and seaweeds.

4. What about calcium?
You can get calcium from salads, nuts, seeds, seaweeds, and veggie juices.

5. What is your daily diet like?
I enjoy ripe fruits with some nut cheeze in the morning. Then have a blended soup or juice in the evening.

6. Will I get bored eating only raw fruit and veggies?
No way! There are thousands of fruits and veggies to try. It's exciting!

7. Won't it be expensive?
At first it might, but it's your health and your body. You deserve it!

8. If I am an athlete will I perform to the top of my abilities while raw?
You will do even better! You will have so much energy you wouldn't know what to do with it!

9. What are some health benefits I will achieve when I go raw?
You will have crstal clear eyes! No more headaches, strong nails, smooth skin, clearer thinking, better sleep and much more!

10. Are olives raw?
Not all olives, there are a few raw stores that sell truly raw sun cured olives. Anything in a can is most likely cooked.

11. Are pickles raw?
If you make them the raw way. Yes!

12. Is honey raw?
If it says on the bottle or jar, it may be. Call the company and ask. Labels may be misleading most times.

13. Is maple syrup raw?
Right from a tree yes, from the store, nope!

14. Is soy sauce raw?
No, it is "living" but it is still cooked then fermented.

15. Is soy milk raw?
Nope, it is heavily cooked and processed.

16. Are nuts and seeds I buy from the store raw?
Most are not. Almonds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds and flax seeds are raw. It is best to buy nuts and seeds from reliable online sources.

17. Do I need any equipment to go raw?
It will be helpful, but it's not necessary. I think the best equipment you can buy is a heavy duty blender. Then a juicer, dehydrator, and so on.

18. Is wine raw?
Some are, but wine contains alcohol, which is not good raw or cooked.

19. Are store bought nut milks raw?
No they are not. Make your own nut milks. It's cheaper and you know what's in it!

20. Can I/Should I take supplements?
If you find it necessary. Listen to your body!

21. Where do you get iron from?
Berries, dried fruits, nuts, seeds, seaweeds, sprouts.

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-----taken from http://www.sproutrawfood.org/faq.htm---------------

1. Why are raw/living foods better than cooked food?

Cooking destroys the food's nutrients and enzymes. Your body needs nutrients to repair and make new cells. Enzymes are needed to help digest the food.

Cooking also damages proteins (there is protein in all food). When the body doesn't recognize a damaged protein, an "immune" response occurs, and this can damage healthy cells (auto immune response).

Cooking causes minerals to lose their organic form, and they're returned to their native state as they occur in soil, sea water and rocks. In this form, they are unusable, and may combine with saturated fats and cholesterol in the circulatory system, clogging it up with cement-like plaque.

Heated fats are especially damaging to the body, because they are altered to form acroleins, free radicals, and other mutagens and carcinogens.

Bottom line: Uncooked (undamaged) food has more vitality... and the more vitality your food has, the more you'll have.

2. What is the difference between "raw food" and "live food"?

Basically, the level of freshness, and the nutritional quality. Because they're both uncooked, they're both technically "raw," but the longer a food is "off the vine" the less its nutrient content. A tomato fresh-picked from your garden is more nutritious than a tomato bought at a store.

Living foods are about as fresh as you can get, and have optimal vitality. Sprouted foods are considered living foods, and are superior in nutrition compared to their unsprouted state.

Bottom line: The fresher and more nutritious your uncooked food is, the better it tastes and the better it is for your body.

3. What improvements can I expect from eating more raw/living food and eating less cooked food?

Digestion is an energy intensive process. The "lighter" your meals, the easier they are to digest and the less energy is required for digestion. The better your meals digest, the less energy is used to deal with the downside of incomplete digestion.

The body has a finite amount of "nerve" energy (not to be confused with the caloric energy that the muscles use). The less energy that's used, the more there is available for other tasks. And a pressing task for most people is cellular housecleaning! It is the lack of this housecleaning that contributes to degenerative diseases such as cancer.

As your cells become healthier, they experience improved functionality. If it's the cells of your eyes, your vision improves; if it's the cells of your nose, your sense of smell improves; if it's the cells of your taste buds, your sense of taste will improve (normalize). And the improved functioning of the cells of your immune system will improve your chances of living a disease-free life.

Many bodily functions will eventually change. People usually find their disagreeable body odor goes away; they no longer need to wear glasses; they don't need as much sleep; they have more energy and their disposition improves. The more uncooked and the less cooked food in your diet, the more pronounced these changes. But just a relatively small improvement from 90% to 100% makes a HUGE difference.

Bottom line: The more uncooked food you eat, the more your body will repair and renew. But you didn't get into the shape you're currently in overnight, so to undo any damage done will take some time. This is a very individual thing, but everyone will benefit from eating the way nature intended.

4. When I replace cooked food with raw/living food, I feel worse! And when I go back to eating mostly cooked food, I feel better. Doesn't this mean I'm better off eating cooked food?

It is easy to misinterpret the scenario you described. It's very common. Here's what's happening: Eating a diet rich in uncooked food will free up energy for healing. And if you've been eating cooked food for any length of time, you have some healing to do. When your body begins the long overdue task of cellular housecleaning, it can be unpleasant... sometimes very unpleasant! But don't let that deter you from becoming healthy.

Understanding that you are purging toxic wastes that were burdening/damaging your body may help you to have the resolve to see it through. Some people who experience very unpleasant "detox" symptoms add a bit of cooked food back into their diet in order to slow the process down to make it tolerable. But if you can tolerate it, stick it out, get it out and get well.

Bottom line: No one is better off eating cooked food (the folks that sell it disagree with this however).

5. If I eat uncooked food, how will I get enough protein?

All foods have protein in them. True, animal food has more protein than plant food (before cooking), but how much protein do you really need? At what point during your entire life, from the moment of birth up until you die, do you need the most protein?

Answer: The first few years. That's when you're doing the most growing. New growth requires more protein than "maintenance growth." So your protein requirements during those first few years of life are higher than they are as an adult. Now, how much protein do you consume as a baby? If you're being fed the diet nature intended, you're drinking milk from your mom. How much protein is in the diet? About eight percent! So if you need about eight percent during the time of your life when you need the most protein, why would you need more than that as an adult?

Also, your body recycles proteins. Proteins are made of amino acids. When an amino acid "breaks," the protein is disassembled and the still functioning amino acids are put in their respective cubbyholes for use in making new proteins as the body needs them. The damaged amino acid is eliminated (hopefully).

Bottom line: It's very difficult to not get enough protein. Most people get way too much. And it's too much protein that contributes to degenerative disease. For a good article on the dangers of high protein diets, read "Fact or Fiction: High Protein Diets are Great for Losing Weight."

6. I could never eat just fruits and vegetables... How do people do it?

Everyone who now loves to eat the diet nature intended (fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds) said the same thing in the beginning. "I could never eat just fruits and vegetables..." It's a mind set. It's how you've been conditioned to think. If you ask any of those people who today love eating a natural, plant based, uncooked diet why they love it, they will tell you they enjoy it as much as or more than the diet they used to eat. They feel better, have more energy, sleep better, look better, have a better outlook on life, or some other reason that makes it well worth it.

Even if today you can't imagine eating just fruits and veggies, you should ask yourself, "If I could get to a point where I would love it, don't I owe it to myself to try?"

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---------taken from http://www.healthfree.com/raw_food_faq.html--------

What is raw food?
Raw food is food which has never been heated nor treated with chemicals so it retains the enzymes and nutrients of its natural state. As soon as a food is cooked or has added chemicals, the vitamins, nutrients, enzymes, and other healthy compounds start to change or become destroyed and the food no longer has the life and health-giving properties it should.

What benefits come from eating a raw food diet?
There are so many benefits, we can’t even list them all. But for starters: people feel more energetic, more awake and healthier on raw. Most people lose excess weight, look and feel younger and more vibrant. Digestive problems like ulcers and acid reflux decrease and disappear. Skin conditions like acne tend to clear up. Body odor decreases. People get far fewer illnesses. People with diseases see relief and many eventually heal when their bodies are not burdened with toxins or an overload of work and can clean out and repair themselves.

What do raw foodists eat?
In a nutshell, raw foodists eat: fresh, raw fruits and vegetables as well as seeds, nuts and some soaked or sprouted grains. There are unlimited recipes and dishes which are made from these ingredients, including: pates, loafs, "noodles", cakes, cookies, crackers, soups, salads and marinades. Raw Foodists do not have to eat only salads!

Does a raw diet include raw meat?
Not usually. Some raw foodists in a transition period will choose to eat things like mahi tuna or steak tartar, but after awhile they usually stop. It isn’t necessary, you won’t gain any thing by eating it. Raw meat is still hard for the body to process, so it can't assimilate the nutrients in meat as well as from vegetables, fruits and soaked nuts and sprouted seeds. Raw meat often contains parasites which also reduce the amount of nutrition available. Many raw foodists are also against eating meat for humane and ecological reasons.

What about protein, how do I get enough of it?
This is the #1 question people have when they are considering a raw food diet. People think that protein comes only from meat, dairy or at least soy, and that without eating at least some of those foods, they won't get enough.. As a matter of fact every living cell contains protein: every plant cell has protein as a basic constituent in its cytoplasm. Vegetables contain protein! Seeds and nuts obviously contain proteins. Seaweeds and algae are very rich sources also. Factually, your body doesn't use whole proteins - it must break these down into amino acids. Plant proteins generally break down for assimilation more quickly than animal proteins and are often found already in the form of amino acids.

The horse, cow, deer, elephant, and gorilla are naturally vegetarians -where does all their muscle and body mass come from? Grass, leafy greens, and in the case of the gorilla, fruit! The meat and dairy industries have spent millions on advertising to convince people the only way to get protein is from meat and dairy products, and they have been very successful. In fact, the protein in meat is coagulated and in a form that the body cannot assimilate easily, and cannot use effectively. The consumption of meat and dairy (and the fat within it) has been linked to all kinds of fatal illnesses, including heart failure..

The fact is, your body needs 22 amino acids in order to build protein molecules and muscles. Of these 22 amino acids, there are 8 which the body cannot make and must get from outside sources. All 8 are available in raw plant foods. And in raw plant foods they are in a form which is easily assimilated and used by the body. All the protein your body needs can be gotten from raw nuts, seeds, vegetables and fruits.

If you are still worried about protein, we recommend you get started on a raw food diet, but eat very small amounts of meat (3 to 5 oz) only a few times a week. And try to get the cleanest, organic meat, with no hormones, that you can. After some time of doing this people generally find that they no longer feel they need the meat, and end up not eating it anymore. In this way you can find out for yourself that you are getting the protein you need.

Do I have to be 100% raw to get benefits?
No. You will see benefits from just from being more raw than you are now. Say you eat 90% cooked food and only 10% raw right now in each meal. (By weight, not by volume.) If you increase the raw so you are eating 50% raw and 50% cooked in each meal, you would see big benefits! However, the cooked food you are eating shouldn’t be candy bars, soda, chocolate, fried chicken, etc. Try to cut out the especially unhealthy cooked foods. However, as long as you still have any amount of cooked food in your diet, you may never see all the benefits of raw. You’ll probably reach a point where you stop improving, but still have some health and body complaints. You can transition by increasing the percentage of cooked to raw food in each meal every week or every month, until eventually you are 100% raw. Eventually, usually after a year or several years, you will want to be 100% raw and feel completely comfortable with it.

Will I lose weight eating Raw?
People do usually lose all their excess weight when they eaten unprocessed, high enzyme raw food diet These foods provide you with nutrition without stressing your digestive system. If it the food is organic as well, your body gets high quality nourishment to keep it running smoothly and no toxins that it couldn't break down and would have to find a place to stash.

When you stop eating toxic, processed foods that your body doesn't know what to do with, you will find that you are more in tune with your body and its actual needs. It is almost impossible to gobble down foods without realizing how much you are eating, when you eat raw. As you sample the variety of different foods available to eat raw, your body gets reacquainted with sources of actual nutrients and you may find yourself craving certain foods and wanting to eat lots of them. That's fine; you can even pig out on things your body really needs and still lose weight! In fact, your body will tend to get rid of the fat and stored toxins, when you give it what it really needs and craves.

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Can you lose too much weight eating raw?
Sometimes people are concerned that they are losing too much weight. The strange thing is that, while they may be concerned that they look too skinny, they still feel better, more healthy and more energetic. What is happening is this: The body is dropping any fat stored up, and any muscle that is too heavily toxic to rebuild. It isn’t something to be worried about. After your body gets rid of the fat and toxic materials, it will start rebuilding with healthy muscle. After detoxifying,people tend to even out at their ideal weight and stay there. If you feel like you’re too skinny, or are worried about getting too skinny, you can start a program of regular exercise. This will help to replace the fat and toxic muscle you've lost with healthy muscle.

How do you get enough calcium without milk products?
First of all, dairy products do not provide sufficient calcium. The countries with the highest dairy consumption are the ones with highest osteoporosis also! All dairy products are extremely acidifying in the body. Dairy is one of the most acidic foods on the PH scale. Calcium is the number one mineral the body uses to buffer against excess acidity, and there is just never enough calcium in any dairy you can eat to offset the acid-producing effect it has. Therefore, you wind up losing calcium when you eat dairy products, not gaining it, as it combines with the acids to remove them from the body. This is the explanation behind the interesting fact that all the countries which consume a lot of dairy also have a high incidence of osteoporosis and other calcium-deficiency related diseases.

On a raw food diet you get lots of calcium from various vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables such as kale, and also broccoli and sesame seeds,. This calcium is very bioavailable, and these foods are alkaline-producing, so the body can actually use the calcium it gets from them.

Don't you get hungry eating raw?
You will find that as you lose fat and toxins, and rebuild with healthy whole nutrients, you will need less food and not get hungry. Think about it: most people overeat as they feel undernourished. A person often stuffs himself at meals while barely even tasting the food piled on in an attempt to get a full, satiated feeling. Then this is repeated as a daily habit because the body craves food but doesn't get enough nutrition; the food it eats is either deficient in nutrients or deficient in enzymes to break them down or the digestive tract is so laden with mucus in an attempt to prevent unsuitable materials that foods are not assimilated. It is a vicious cycle of modern society with its over-processed "empty" foods -, and the result is multitudes of obese people!

While making the transition to raw, your body is still trying to get rid of the unsuitable materials that were stored and replace them with fresh raw foods nutrients. You can feel hungry as your intestines and all your tissues throw off old stored matter that has little use. You may think it is the raw food that is empty, but if you persist you will find that when your body has cleaned out, you will desire less quantity of food yet feel entirely satisfied from the raw foods you eat.

Another factor is that many people have parasites although they may not be aware of it. The parasites make a person crave food as he isn't getting enough with them stealing it! Also, although this craving is especially for dairy and carbohydrates (pasta, cookies, bread, sugar, more, more, more...!) It is hard to resist this feeling, but getting rid of the parasites will make your transition and life much easier.

To help make the transition, people going raw usually want heavier foods, such as nutburger mixes and nut-based pates,avocados and oils, and more complex combinations of foods that take longer to move through the digestive system. There are many recipe books that give transitional food ideas .Generally, raw foods are lighter so you will tend to eat less at a time but more frequently.

Doesn't eating all vegetables and fruits get boring?
At first, people are usually unaware of the vast variety of foods available and the many methods of preparation for preparingdelicious and interesting dishes. They tend to eat plain vegetables or plain salads and fruit and find it boring. But you can have a 5 course raw meal with an appetizer, soup, salad, meaty loaf or pasta-like veggie dish; there are ethnic entrees, beverages and desserts such as pies, cookies, puddings and others. On the West Coast there are raw restaurants with a six-week waiting list on reservations where you can eat a five-course gourmet meal! Check our recipes section to get started, and then purchase a few raw "un-cook" books. You will find it is really not boring at all, and there are even more options available for flavorful dishes in raw foods than in cooked food.

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How time-consuming is raw food to prepare?
When first going raw you will tend to desire the complicated and filling recipes that replace cooked food meals and are somewhat time consuming to prepare. But as the months go by you will find yourself desiring complex meals less and less, and you will find you are more satisfied with eating whole foods which are as fast as it gets, needing perhaps a little chopping or peeling and that’s it.

There are also other benefits to preparing raw food. Cleaning up is much faster and easier as there are no pans, no stuck on food or burnt on grease to deal with. Your dishes can usually be cleaned just by rinsing them off. Also, when you prepare raw foods you can enjoy the vibrant colors and aromas they retain.

What do you do at social gatherings where everyone is eating cooked food?
You could eat only whatever raw food there is, such as fruit salad or veggies from a veggie tray Another option is to let the cook know ahead of time and request that a raw dish be provided for you to eat. If it is an function you are paying to attend, they are usually considerate of dietary needs and will provide a salad or other raw dish in place of the standard meal. If you know there is going to be no raw food at all, you can either eat ahead of time so you won't need to eat at the gathering. You also have the option of bringing some of your own food. Chances are, others will be interested in your goodies! While it may be a bit awkward to explain your needs, most people are considerate and will respect your eating habits, and try to accommodate them. If all else fails you can play with your food and fork so it looks like you are eating and no one makes it an issue.

Can I still eat out?
Yes! You can get fairly clever about getting the restaurants to give you a tasty raw meal from the foods they usually use. Look over the menu and see what kinds of salads they serve. Perhaps they do offer a good salad or fruit salad. Also look for vegetables and fruits they use in any of their dishes or side dishes or even as a garnish. Do they have stuffed bell peppers on the menu? Then they probably have some fresh ones in the kitchen.You can request a special elaborate raw salad including any of the things you saw. You could order a dish which is usually cooked but ask them to leave it raw (like a vegetable stir-fry) and ask them to leave the sauce on the side (in case you find it too yuccky). You might see that some of their cooked dishes include portabello mushrooms and red peppers, and one dish has avocado and mango in it. And that their Caesar salad has Romaine lettuce - so you could order their grilled chicken strip salad, without the chicken, and ask for portabello mushrooms to substitute for the chicken, uncooked; then tell you them don't eat cheese either so to please skip the cheese and give you avocado and mango pieces instead; and tell them you also want only Romaine lettuce - no iceberg. Ask for lemons or limes to squeeze on as a dressing. Sometimes a waiter will be confused, but usually any restaurant with decent service will accomodate you nicely. You could also take a small bottle of organic oil or a homemade dressing with you when you go out to put over your veggies or salad.

How do I get my kids to eat raw?
This can be tricky, because you don't want kids to feel deprived or to reinforce their insistence on eating cooked food. So do it on a gradient. The best way is to make a lot of delicious raw dishes which they enjoy andwant to eat. Usually this means desserts at first. Raw desserts are made of healthy filling ingredients - usually it’s just fruits, spices, nuts, and dates or honey. so you can give them a piece of raw cake for dessert, for a snack, or even for a meal. They'd probably be excited to be eating cake for dinner! Green salads with strawberries, mangos, and pine nuts or walnuts added are usually considered a treat too. Find a recipe that uses your child's favorite frruits or vegetables and make it. If your kids are older, explain to them what kind of benefits they can gain from eating raw. If they have a problem like asthma, acne, or overweight, you can get them interested in raw by showing them how it will help with their problem. There are stories from raw foodists of how it changed their health or looks, or perhaps there are people you both know who have gone raw and can be a good example (or you convert to raw first and demonstrate the changes in health and appearance). Another great way to get your kids involved in raw food is to get their help and ideas in preparing the foods. There are great recipe books, interesting new ingredients, and fun kitchen equipment to learn to use. They will enjoy making yummy recipes for themselves and others. Get a kid's creativity going and it will be hard to stop him or her! Hopefully, they'll find dishes they love to show off with. out of that.

How can I convince my husband or wife to do this with me?
Find a few dishes your spouse likes which are raw, and present these along with their regular foods. Get creative, the more raw dishes you find that they like, the more likely they are to go raw. Usually the biggest objection anyone has to going raw is having to give up all the cooked foods they love. But if you have delicious raw foods on hand to replace those cooked dishes, that can be more persuasive than anything. Also, try to lead by example. If you are eating raw and having great benefits, hopefully they'll notice. They'll have a very hard time holding to their objections if they're seeing the wonderful results right in front of them..

What if I have diabetes or another illness, can I still eat raw food?
Yes, raw food is exactly what you should be eating if you're ill. Many illnesses come from lack of usable nutrition in the food you're eating, or an over stressed digestive system which is not doing it's job properly and is putting strain on the rest of the body, making you more likely to get sick. Eating raw allows your digestive system to clean itself out, and gives your body the nutrition it needs to rebuild and heal itself. However, you still have to use common sense. If you are very ill or fragile you don't want to shock your body with a major diet change all at once. Start adding more raw food into your diet gradually. You can call us and we will help you figure out how to transition with your specific concerns.

What makes cooked and processed food so much less healthy?
As soon as you apply heat to food it starts to break down, nutrients are degraded or eliminated. Very often when you're eating cooked and processed foods there is so little nutrition present that the body has to use its reserves to break it down and eliminate it. The amount of nutrition you're gaining from it is less than the amount your body needs to process it. You can only go on your reserves so long before your body will not have enough nutrients left to carry out its processes, and then you begin to get deficiencies and the illnesses related with them. The nutrients in food are also degraded by heavy processing, adding all kinds of preservatives and homogenizers and irradiation. These not only cause the nutrition in the food to break down, they are also toxic to the body. When the FDA approves these additives and treatment procedures, their concern is to find the level or amount at which they are not too harmful, which is the level they then approve. But the fact remains that they are still somewhat harmful. And after years of consuming these additives in almost all the food you eat, it builds up in your body and the effects can definitely be seen. Just look at all the diseases that are so common now, but were rarely even heard of 100 years ago when food was far less processed!

Can I enjoy eating raw even if I don't really like vegetables or salads?
Yes! Find recipes you do enjoy eating. Try seed and nut pates, fruits, desserts, smoothies, raw dehydrated crackers and cookies, and marinades. Somewhere in that list (which includes no salads!) you will find dishes that you enjoy eating, and can make a large part of your diet. Also, try as many different vegetables as you can, you will probably find some that you have overlooked in the past which you would enjoy. Your tastes will change as you eat raw for weeks and months. Start out with the things listed above, but try salads and vegetables every so often. Incorporate some amount of them into your diet. You will find that your taste buds and your body will let you know that they desire the vital nutrition from veggies, and you'll start to enjoy them.

How will I know my body is getting all the nutrition it needs?
After eating raw for a week or several weeks you'll notice that you feel better. This is the best indication you can have that your body is getting the nutrition it needs - actual, noticeable improvements to your well being! Also, if you do some kind of exercise regularly, you will notice your strength and endurance improving more rapidly.

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Where can I shop to find a better variety of raw foods?
Of course the obvious answer is your local health food store. They will be more likely to have raw nuts, seeds and grains than a regular grocery store, but you still have to watch out because even in a health food store they carry many roasted nuts. Read the labels carefully! Also, taste or smell them to check for staleness or rancidity. Let your health food store manager know if you want fresher products.

Another good place to look is in ethnic food markets. There you can usually find exotic fruits such as: young coconuts - that is coconuts which are not as old as the conventional round, brown, and hairy ones - and are white or still in a green shell and their meat is soft and flexible instead of chewy and fibrous. Durian, a spiky large fruit that has compartments inside with yellow, pudding-like meat. Leeche nuts, which are small, red and spiky and have sweet flesh surrounding a pit, and other exotic raw fruits and vegetables.

You might also check fruit stands in your area, we have had the good luck to find one recently that is only a few blocks away and always has a selection of more exotic produce, at very reasonable prices.

How do I overcome the cravings for cooked foods?
This boils down to discipline and preparation. Finding recipes you like to eat and eating them when you get a cooked food craving will help. Also, get some raw books and inform yourself of the negative effects of cooked food. If you are really craving something cooked, grab a plate of your favorite raw dish and read one of the powerful sections in a book to remind yourself why you are sticking to this diet. If you go cold turkey and stay raw, your cravings dwindle and eventually disappear. If you are still eating some percentage of cooked food you will probably get some cravings until you go totally raw. Also, be aware that some cravings are really nutrition deficiencies. In Victoria Boutenko's book 12 Steps to Raw Food she mentions that cravings for sweets are often really cravings for calcium, and by eating foods high in calcium (such as sesame milk) she got rid of her sweet cravings. (See our Articles section for the excerpt.) If you are craving something cooked, try to figure out how to eat similar ingredients or flavors raw.

Should I only eat Organically grown foods?
Studies done on organic foods vs. commercially grown foods have shown that the organic produce has an average of 3 times more nutrients than commercially grown. Organic foods aren't grown with the pesticides, chemicals, growth stimulants and bioengineering, all of which are very bad for your body. Many organic foods just plain taste better and have more flavor as well. But, prices can be much higher for organic. If you have the means, definitely eat as much organically grown as you can. If the price makes it impossible for you to do this, then buy the commercially grown and eat organic when you can. If you're buying commercial produce, inquire about the source of it and try to avoid any that is bioengineered (the genes are spliced with those of animals, insects, or fish to make them more disease resistant) and remember to wash or peel everything, to minimize the pesticides you're consuming.

Will I need special kitchen appliances or utensils for preparing raw foods?
To get started you can get away with just a blender and some knives. As you want to make more complex recipes and pates you will want to get a food processor. Food processors are invaluable for chopping and grinding seeds and nuts, shredding vegetables, making sauces and pates. To get started you can just get an attachment for most blender bases so you can use it as a food processor, these are generally around $20. For grinding nuts you can also use a coffee grinder and do small batches at a time. You can get along with using a regular blender for awhile, but some time down the line you'll probably want a higher-powered blender such as a Vitamix. If you're mixing nuts and fruits and vegetables and such making soups and frostings in a regular blender, you will probably wear them out every so often and need to get a new one. A Vitamix can handle a lot more and they last for years and years. There are also little kitchen helper utensils which will make your life easier. There is a device called Spiroolli which is invaluable for making raw pasta, it creates strands of vegetable which really imitate pasta well. It also makes quick shreds and chips. You can purchase it on our products page. If you get really into raw and want to make your own cookies and crackers and other dehydrated items, you will want a dehydrator. You can eat raw for quite some time or even indefinitely without one, however.

Can I overeat on raw foods?
Yes. You should avoid eating to the point where your stomach feels distended, over-stuffed or uncomfortable. This is a habit many people develop from childhood when their parents tell them they have to eat everything on their plates. It puts unnecessary strain on the stomach and digestive system to expand so it can accommodate more food each you eat a meal. This can also make your belly look larger, as you stomach will stop contracting if it is used to very large meals. However, over eating on raw is much easier for the stomach to handle than over eating on cooked food.

Are there any raw foods which are unhealthy?
There are no specific raw foods which are unhealthy, but some foods if eaten in excess can be stressful to the digestive system. Having too much of the higher-fat raw foods such as nuts, seeds and avocados in your diet can be stressful to your system, especially for people who have been raw for years so their system is not used to all the heavier food anymore. Also, avoid eating too high a percentage of fruit or any one type of vegetable in your diet for a long period of time. How much of a food is too much varies from person to person, just listen to your body. Make sure to eat varied foods to give your body a good supply of all the nutrients it needs.

Is eating completely raw 100% all the time all I need to do for good health?
For some time this may seem true, because it is such a radical improvement for the body. But in order to be really healthy you should also do some kind of exercise regularly. This helps to keep you in shape, strong, younger, and in better health. Also, you should make sure to sweat while doing at least some of your exercises. Sweating is a necessary function of the body and allows the lymph systems to clean out. For optimum health you should do some kind of exercise which is strenuous for you at your level and allows you to sweat at least 3 times a week for 45 minutes. Also get sunlight and fresh air regularly. A healthy lifestyle should include a good evaluation of what is important to you in life, a philosphy of life which helps you to understand and live in harmony with others, and which enables you to reach for your goals and pursue them.

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--------taken from http://rawfamily.com/faqs6.htm---------------
HOW CAN I TELL IF I'M GOING THROUGH A DETOX?
According to my observation, raw food helps everyone. However, we are all pioneers. There are no experts in raw foods. We are pretty much on our own. I realize that our body is like a vessel where so much waste is coming in, and accumulating over the years, but only a limited amount of waste is allowed to get out. Even with people who eat pretty healthy, there is still air pollution, water pollution etc. Thus when we change the diet, and the body gains extra energy, it often tries to detox. However, we cannot label every symptom as "detox". I believe that no one could tell you what exactly is happening to you. In my experience, I had several detoxes, and all of them were quite different. At the same time, I do have some weak spots in my body. For example, I am sensitive to salt. If I consume a little bit of salt, my knees could start hurting. Or when I get extremely tired, my voice becomes hoarse. During the ten years I have been on 100% raw foods, the couple times I was so concerned that the thought about antibiotics popped in my mind, I just fasted on water, for one or two or three days. Or on vegetable juices. Read some literature on natural hygiene. There are lots of helpful books. I hope it helps. I wish you well.

I JUST STARTED ON A RAW FOOD DIET, AND MY BODY JUST FEELS STRANGE. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Do expect your body to go through a cleansing process, and don't be too critical of it while it does.

I HAVE A GRINDING FEELING IN MY STOMACH! WHAT'S WRONG?
I am not sure what exactly is happening, but my guess is that you are suffering from having too many things combined at once. Raw gourmet food very often has horrible combinations in it. In the past, both Igor and I felt truly sick after eating some raw gourmet meals. Maybe try to eat simpler?

WILL I GET PROTEIN FROM WHEAT GRASS?
I highly recommend to you, one of the following books:
Ann Wigmore: Be Your Own Doctor
Ann Wigmore: Why Suffer?
Steve Meyerowitz: Wheat Grass: Nature's Finest Medicine
Because these books have scientific data showing that Wheat Grass is twelve times richer in protein than eggs, chicken, milk or meat.

I AM HAVING INTESTINAL PROBLEMS ON RAW FOOD, AND MY WIFE HAS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME. CAN RAW FOOD HELP US?
The best book I've read about raw food and intestinal problems was written by Dave Klein. You can find it at his website: www.livingnutrition.com .

ANY ADVICE FOR DEALING WITH CONSTIPATION?
I met many people who had chronic constipation who were relieved by adding ground flax to their daily meals, about 1 Tablespoon per plate.

WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DIABETES?
Here is a wonderful source for diabetics. The guy who runs this newsletter collects success stories of diabetics! His name is Patrick and here is how you get a hold of him: plecky@cfl.rr.com

I READ AN ARTICLE THAT RAW VEGANS DON'T GET ENOUGH B12. WHAT DO YOU THINK?
I agree that there is a lot of contradictory information about B12 in the human organism. I cannot tell you which information is right, and which is wrong; the only thing I can tell you is, that my family of four has been staying on the raw food diet, 100%, for over ten years, and we feel well. We do not have any signs of B12 deficiency. Like anemia, or nervous breakdown. We do not take any supplements, and we do not eat animal products.

MY BODY REACTS BADLY TO SOMETHING I'M EATING; HOW CAN I FIGURE OUT WHAT IT IS?
On raw food, the human body becomes much more sensitive to different products. The best way to figure out what causes a reaction is to write a list of everything you consumed about six hours prior to such a reaction. Then you could compare several of these lists, and figure out what food is common to all the lists.

WHAT CAN I DO TO IMPROVE THE HEALTH OF MY TEETH?
From Sergei:
Teeth can be simply confusing! Orange and grapefruit juice are very healthy but not in mass quantities. Citrus juices have a lot of sugar which if over-consumed take their toll on the teeth. Whoever said that “too much of a good thing is a bad thing” was right!

Here is what you can do to improve the health of your teeth:

Limit citrus juice intake (once again I do not mean stop drinking orange juice, just watch how much you drink) I would say no more than 8-12oz per day depending on the person.
DO NOT SNACK. This is something that many raw fooders do. Snacking is very destructive for teeth. (this is where the yellow color comes from.) You see, the chemistry in your mouth is always alkaline when you are not eating. When you put any kind of food in your mouth (cooked or raw) the chemistry changes to acid. If a person eats non-stop (snacks) then the chemistry in his mouth always stays acidic. This is what makes teeth yellow first before getting worse.
From Victoria:
Even though I met two people in my life who showed me regrown teeth in their mouths, I still regard it as a miracle. I understand that the human race is so unhealthy in general, and our poor teeth are just the result of it.

My recommendations for dental care are as follows: don't use any kind of toothpaste, even health brands, because toothpaste contains vegetable glycerin in it. Glycerin covers enamel with a film for several hours, and prevents regrowth of enamel. The best thing to brush your teeth with is Castile Soap. It is not very pleasant at first, but you can get used to it. I found that it really does work. It provides alkaline solution in the mouth, for several hours, and you can actually feel how your enamel becomes stronger. Always clean your teeth after eating dates, raisins, or similar foods. Try to have several hour breaks between meals, without eating anything.

HAVING GAS IS MY PROBLEM. I HAVE BEEN ON RAW FOOD FOR FIVE DAYS AND HAVE BEEN HAVING GAS. ANY COMMENTS?
I will share with you some of my observations.
People who eat cooked food develop very low level of chloric acid in their stomach. In order to digest raw food properly, especially fibers, we do need a normal level of chloric acid. When the fiber has not been properly digested by chloric acid it is common to experience gas. Usually after a couple of months of eating 100% raw, the stomach recovers and the chloric acid level becomes normal. However, you can help this process by blending your food in a blender, or by adding apple cider vinegar to your meals. Also, try to eat nuts and fruits at separate times.

I HAVE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS. HOW CAN RAW FOOD HELP ME?
I am not a medical doctor and cannot give you medical advice.
I can only tell you that my husband Igor, who was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, went on 100% raw diet Jan. 21st 1994, and stayed on it. He was also very active. He is constantly exercising, jumping with rope, doing hundreds of pushups daily, and taking long walks whenever he can. He also likes saunas. He goes to the local YMCA and spends an hour or two in the sauna there every other day. His arthritis is practically gone.

WHY AM I GETTING COLD SORES?
Cold sores are one of the most common healing crises, which actually indicates the strength of the body. I remember that when I began I had terrible sores on the inside of my lips. They soon went away and yes, it was just a phase or cleansing my body needed to go through.

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT CANDIDA?
Many people mistakenly think that Candida is caused by sugary foods, or fermented foods. It has been discovered by an English professor, Rosalyn Gruben, that the real cause is fat. Some people are very sensitive to any fats, even fats coming from nuts, avocados or the best quality oils. For this reason, she recommends to go for one or two days per week without any oil, avocados, seeds, nuts, crackers or anything that has fat. That is very effective way of dealing with Candida. I know many people who completely got rid of their symptoms.

WILL RAW FOOD STILL WORK FOR ME EVEN IF I HAVE HAD SURGERY?
Is cooked food working for you since your surgery? Raw is everything your body could possibly want in its simplest state. The body does not have to work nearly as hard with raw as it does with cooked.

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--some questions and answers taken from http://rawfamily.com/faqs.htm--
WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT SUGAR ADDICTION?
Very often when people crave sweets, they need calcium. The sugar molecule has calcium in it. What has worked for me, and for many others, is to drink sesame milk every morning for a couple weeks. You will notice that even dates will taste too sweet for you.

MILK CRAVINGS—WHAT SHOULD I DO ABOUT THEM?
Have you tried the raw almond milk recipe? That might help get you through the milk cravings, and I believe it would be much more nutritious.

DO YOU TAKE SUPPLEMENTS?
I don't take any supplements. A couple of times I tried taking the best supplements, like SuperFood and E-3 Life, and I didn't notice any difference. I notice that I feel the best after drinking green juices and eating dark greens.

I'M NOT LOSING MUCH WEIGHT ON RAW FOODS, HELP!
Are you not exercising? What kind of diet did you have before going raw? Do you snack? Are you under a lot of stress? Are you not 100% raw? These are all factors that could slow down the weight loss.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BROWN AND GOLDEN FLAX?
Golden flax is a little more mild in taste, other than that there is no major difference between golden and brown flax.

CAN I PUT YOUR CRACKERS IN THE FREEZER?
Do not put crackers or scones in the freezer! The Omega oils will begin to smell like fish oil. Only in the cool place or fridge. They will survive for a couple of weeks at a room temperature

WHAT ABOUT FREEZING RAW FOODS?
Freezing is a natural process, many wild animals like deer eat frozen grass, and branches of trees, during the winter. However, I have noticed that when I freeze soups, they are not as tasty as fresh. See for yourself.

IS MANNA BREAD RAW?
If you are in transitional phase, you may eat Manna bread for a while. I spoke to the manufacturer, and they claim that the inside of the bread is definitely raw, while the crust is slightly baked. However, if you are trying to stay 100% raw, then you probably will be better off not eating Manna bread. You can learn how to make flax crackers, it is very simple.

HOW CAN I USE GARBANZO (OR OTHER) BEANS AND LENTILS WITHOUT COOKING (AS IS REQUIRED IN THE HUMMUS AND CHILI RECIPES)?
In the book Eating without Heating, on Page 84, in the recipe for hummus, it says: 2 cups of garbanzo beans, sprouted for one day. On Page 64, in the recipe for chili, it says: add one pound of bean, pea or lentil sprouts. That's what we do: we sprout beans. You may purchase sprouted beans in the health food store. Or you may sprout beans yourself. You may sprout only four kinds of beans: garbanzo, adzuki, lentils, and mung. There are many books that teach about sprouting. Books by Ann Wigmore, Steve Mayerowich, Victoras Kolvinskas, and many others. In order to sprout beans, you soak them overnight in pure water, then drain. Wait till the tail of the sprout is the same length as the bean

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DEHYDRATOR AND AN OVEN?
The difference between a food dehydrator and an oven is: an oven heats food at over 200 degrees and kills the enzymes in the food, whereas a dehydrator blows warm air no hotter than 100 degrees on the food, leaving the enzymes still intact.

HOW CAN I STAY RAW WHILE TRAVELING?
Traveling and staying raw can be very challenging. When I travel overseas I make sure to have lots of dried food with me and there are days that I just drink water, because I cannot find any suitable food. However, I think the biggest challenge is not the absence of food but the temptations surrounding the traveler.

HOW DO YOU CLEAN YOUR RAW FOODS WHEN YOU TRAVEL?
When we travel, we take lots of dehydrated food with us. The only thing I use for cleaning produce is hydrogen peroxide solution. After ten years being raw, I am not afraid anymore of any parasites because I believe that my immune system is very strong now

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---- some info taken from http://www.alissacohen.com/faqs.html --------

What does someone's daily diet look like when they are eating raw and living food?

The diet of some one eating a raw diet varies according to the person, just as no two people who eat cooked food eat the same.

Whole fruits, smoothies, or fruit and vegetable juices, are a great way to start the day.

For lunch and dinner there are so many raw food dishes that you could make. Just as it is impossible to list all of the cooked food entree's that people eat, so too would it be impossible to list all of the options available for lunches and dinners. The choices for desserts are so numerous and delicious, and when made from raw and living food, there is no guilt and no need to abstain. There are times when I have eaten a whole banana cream pie for lunch. Raw pasta, banana and almond butter sandwiches, fettuccini alfredo, burgers, large salads with guacamole and corn chowder are some of my favorite lunch or dinner items.

There are over 300 recipes in Living on Live Food; hourdourves - spanikopita (spinach pie) and jicama fries.. Breads, muffins and crackers - apple muffins, onion bagel bread, and Mexican crackers. Soups - coconut soup, chili, and watermelon soup. Dips and spreads - hummus, refried beans and spinach dip. Salads - Italian tomatoe basil salad and pear beet and jicama salad along with dressings like Japanese salad dressing and green goddess dressing. Entree's - spinach pizza, bbq chicken fingers, sushi, crab cakes and meatballs. Desserts - blueberry pie, black forest cake, carrot cake, canoli's and fudge. Fruit drinks, vegetable drinks, smoothies and so much more!

Why don't I have to count calories or fat grams? How can I eat avocados, nuts and other high fat foods on this diet and still lose weight?
There is a huge difference between cooked fats and raw fats.
The studies that have been done linking fats to high cancer rates, heart attacks, kidney failure, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, angina, cardiovascular disease, and all of the other diseases that clog up the blood and the arteries have been done with cooked fats. Obesity is linked to a high cooked fat diet.

Raw plant fats on the other hand, have exactly the opposite effect. Raw fats, such as avocadoes, olives, coconuts, nuts and seeds are imperative in a healthy diet. These fats contain antioxidants. They contain oils that help the joints, nerves, and bones.

These raw plant fats do not cause the body to gain excess weight because they still contain the enzyme lipase; this is the enzyme that is needed to digest fat. Cooking fats destroy lipase, along with other important enzymes and minerals. The fat digesting enzyme, lipase, brakes up the raw plant foods as they are eaten and help to digest the oils in these foods. Because this food is getting assimilated and digested properly, It is not clogging up the blood and arteries, and causing all kinds of chronic and degenerative diseases, and it is not getting stored as excess weight in the body. You will not get fat by eating avocadoes, sprouted nuts and seeds and other plant fats. When I first started this diet I was eating 2-3 avocadoes a day and losing weight. I didn t have much weight to lose, but the few extra pounds I just melted off because I was eating fats in their whole natural form with all of their enzymes intact.

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--------some info taken from http://www.rawschool.com/basics.htm -------

What do raw foodists eat?
For our purposes here at RawSchool.com, the term “raw foodist” refers to someone who eats a diet primarily or exclusively comprised of biologically appropriate foods. (Please see the next question for a definition of “biologically appropriate”).

Raw foodists eat fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds. The ideal percentages seem to be 75-85% fruit, 10-20% green leafy vegetables, and 5% nuts and seeds. Most people who change to a raw food diet initially go through a period of eating very complicated combinations of foods as a way of replicating their favorite cooked foods. This is a healthy, painless way to transition. There are lots of 'uncook' books on the market now, with recipes for everything from raw lasagna to cookies and pies. These kinds of dishes can be very helpful in the transition process. At first, it is common to eat large quantities of food and to eat more fatty and dense foods like nuts and dried fruit, as these give us the "full" and "satisfied" feeling that we're used to getting from cooked food. This changes over time. Eating cooked food for an entire lifetime causes our digestive systems to build up protective barriers to prevent too much absorption of the harmful, denatured substances in cooked food. A diet of raw, biologically appropriate foods allows the body to slowly and naturally shed that protection, thereby increasing its ability to absorb and assimilate nutrients. When this happens, our bodies demand less.

Eventually, successful raw foodists invariably settle into a very simple way of eating. It is not hunger but our emotional addictions to food and our misplaced expectation that food should serve as entertainment or comfort which motivate us to combine foods in complex recipes. True hunger demands only nutrient-rich, uncooked, biologically-appropriate food, and preferably only one food at a time, since each food requires a different chemical environment for digestion.

Why don't raw foodists eat grains, meat, and dairy foods?
"Biologically appropriate" foods are those for which we are physiologically adapted. Humans are a frugivorous or "fruit-eating" species. This is not a matter of speculation or belief. Belief is defined as the acceptance of ideas without regard to evidence for or against. We need not allow beliefs to guide us in matters of health. Rather, what should dictate our habits are the immutable laws of nature that are obvious and self-evident through simple observation.

Natural laws and principles of science are just as fixed and certain when they are applied to human health as they are when applied to any other subject, such as chemistry, mathematics or astronomy. For example, animals are scientifically classified according to their diets and their corresponding physiologies. Granivores eat primarily grains, insectivores eat mostly insects, and so on. When we compare human anatomy and physiology to those of other species, we find that we are distinctly different from granivores, carnivores, insectivores, herbivores and even omnivores (such as pigs and bears). We find, though, that we are remarkably similar, in fact identical in some important ways, to our primate cousins, who are all frugivores. Although mainstream nutrition "experts" commonly classify humans as omnivores, the stark differences between us and true omnivores and the preponderant similarities between us and frugivores leave absolutely no doubt that humans are, indeed, a frugivorous species. When the evidence is studied objectively, the facts are inescapable. It is these kinds of observations and logical conclusions which enable us to determine with 100% certainty what our natural foods are.

What are the other healthful habits one must practice to acquire and maintain perfect health?
Much attention is given to nutritional matters, because that is where people have gotten the farthest off track. But there are many other habits which bear significantly upon our level of health. Exercise, for example, assists and improves many vital bodily processes, including the movement of lymph, which carries waste out of the body. During sleep, the body regenerates nerve energy, restocks cells and organs with fuel, replaces old cells and rids itself of uneliminated toxins. Breathing clean air means our respiratory and circulatory systems don't have to work so hard to remove impurities. Sunshine enhances bodily nutritive processes overall and facilitates nutrient absorption and assimilation. Engaging in work that is creative and productive gives us a sense of satisfaction and self-reliance, and is a healthy outlet for our energy. All of these factors, plus many more, are important in determining how healthy we will be.

In addition to eating cooked or processed food, smoking, drinking harmful beverages, sleeping too little and not exercising enough, there are other habits that are particularly destructive of health. One of those is the practice of suppressing symptoms with medications, remedies, herbs and supplements. A cold, for example, is the body's relief valve for eliminating toxins that have accumulated to a level that jeopardizes health. Taking cold remedies causes the body to retain waste that it would otherwise discard. To suppress any of the body's eliminative efforts is to subvert its ability to maintain balance and preserve life. The wisdom of our bodies far exceeds our capacity to fully comprehend it. The body never makes mistakes. Our health-building habits should therefore include fostering in ourselves an attitude of trust, respect, and cooperation with the innate intelligence of our bodies.

What's the hardest part about going raw?
Many times when people hear about the health transformations and see the astounding before and after pictures of people who have gone raw, they jump right into the lifestyle without fully realizing the mental, emotional and lifestyle changes that are required to succeed long-term on a 100% raw food diet. Old unhealthful habits have to be replaced by new healthful ones. This is a very slow and painstaking process that requires conscious effort. In addition, there is much to learn and UN-learn. You'll have to be prepared to devote a good deal of time to seeking out and studying new information, and casting off old ideas and ways of thinking. You'll have to have enough knowledge about and confidence in what you're doing to deflect well-meaning criticism from friends, co-workers and family members whose mistaken ideas about health may cause them to question or even condemn your new lifestyle. If you live in a 'cooked' household it will take strength and conviction to stick to your healthy practices while everyone around you indulges in their favorite cooked foods. Even if everyone in your household is raw, you'll still be living in a culture where destructive habits are encouraged and supported. It will seem sometimes like you're the only one in the world who cares about living healthfully. This is just a partial list of the challenges. On top of all that, you'll have to have enough resolve and commitment to get through stages of healing and bodily adjustment that may occasion feelings of weakness, anxiety, lack of energy, discouragement and even acute (flu-like) symptoms. The process of detoxification is not torturous, but it can be unpleasant at times. It is a necessary part of getting well. Nature demands due accounting when we abuse our bodies. Our choices are either to pay now with a little short-term discomfort, or later with degenerative disease and premature death.

You also have to be willing to change your life in ways that go beyond eating habits. Your exercise and sleep habits, personal hygiene, social outlets, forms of recreation and even possibly your profession, among many other facets of your life, may become subject to re-evaluation and change if optimal health is what you desire.

In addition, health improvements may not happen quickly. In the beginning they may not seem equal to the sacrifices and work that are required. Healing happens at different rates for everyone but it can sometimes be very slow. Patience and cooperation are the order of the day. Our bodies are under no obligation to reward our efforts with instant or quick healing.

HOWEVER, even the most difficult and demanding aspects of going raw are worth every bit of effort in the end if you see them through. Until you have experienced them, the potential benefits defy the imagination. No disease, no fear of disease, clear thinking, deep sleep, balanced emotions, rational judgement, almost limitless energy, a firm/youthful body, clear eyesight, increased self-confidence and self-awareness, heightened senses, smooth skin, healthy sexual function and the knowledge that you will be independent and active into your old age, plus many, many others. Ultimately, the benefits you reap WILL be commensurate with the effort you sow.

[peanutterb]

What's the best way to get started transitioning to a raw food diet?
We all have our own way of approaching these changes so there isn't one formula that works for everyone. Some people need to research the information for months before taking the first step, and others like to jump in and learn as they go. In addition, we all start from a different place with regard to the habits we currently follow. Just eating fruit for breakfast instead of cereal and milk would represent a huge improvement for someone who lives a very junky SAD lifestyle. On the other hand, a person who is already eating a reasonably healthy diet might want to make bigger changes.

Sometimes when people are suddenly exposed to the truth, they want to take action immediately. There's nothing wrong with someone who has abyssmal eating habits wanting to make sweeping changes right away, if the person has the determination and commitment to stick to it. Making changes too fast, however, can lead to backsliding which can have psychological consequences that are harmful to your health goals. Conservative, gradual changes tend to be more permanent than radical changes made in haste.

The importance of reading and gathering new information cannot be overemphasized. There is a vast amount of information available to new raw fooders about what to eat and why. The resources referenced here on RawSchool.com are a good place to start. In addition, it can be very helpful to create a social support system, whether this takes the form of people you actually meet in person or just interact with on-line. There are lots of ways for you to seek out people to learn from and commune with. The good news is that as raw foodism gains in popularity, it becomes easier to find others who are making the same changes you are.

Once you are convinced that transitioning to a raw food diet is for you, you should begin making changes right away. The sooner you start, the sooner you can begin enjoying the benefits.

[mtmouse]

My recommendations for dental care are as follows: don't use any kind of toothpaste, even health brands, because toothpaste contains vegetable glycerin in it. Glycerin covers enamel with a film for several hours, and prevents regrowth of enamel. The best thing to brush your teeth with is Castile Soap. It is not very pleasant at first, but you can get used to it. I found that it really does work. It provides alkaline solution in the mouth, for several hours, and you can actually feel how your enamel becomes stronger. Always clean your teeth after eating dates, raisins, or similar foods. Try to have several hour breaks between meals, without eating anything.

Okay, you guys, by now you know I'll try just about anything!

I use Bronner's baby mild Castile soap for all my washing, shampooing, etc. I've also been having problems with tooth sensitivity for some time. It was really awful during MC1, and I resorted to using Sensodyne toothpaste. (yick) It stopped pretty quickly afterwards, though, and I went back to feeling "normal" regarding my teeth.

On MC2 (6 weeks later) I was really careful to rinse my mouth out completely after every glass of lemonade, and I was delighted to have no tooth sensitivity whatsoever during the cleanse.

However, as soon as I switched to the OJ I totally forgot about that, and the pain came back with a vengeance! And, despite rinsing and brushing and all, it persisted (albeit on a reduced level) for weeks following MC2. (It has recently almost entirely subsided, almost a month later. But not quite: I still feel I have to be careful.)

I have been using a natural toothpaste, but I checked and it does have glycerin. (I sometimes even use glycerin as a sweetener, but not often.)

So today I jumped in and tried the Castile toothpaste. To my great surprise, it wasn't bad at all! It had no taste, and it just felt completely neutral to me. And I immediately tested the pH of my mouth, and it was very alkaline, all right! (I'd never tested it before, though, so that's not worth much, LOL.)

So I'll have no trouble running an experiment. From here on in, I'll brush with Castile soap every time I eat something. I don't usually snack much, but I'll be even more careful now. I don't eat all raw, but I do eat a fairly high percent raw.

I'll let you know if I can "feel my enamel become stronger". :) And if my sensitivity goes down. I would certainly love for both to be true.

[peanutterb]

The Sad Death Of 'Organic'
How weird and depressing is it now that Kellogg's and Wal-Mart are hawking 'natural' foods?

By Mark Morford, SF Gate Columnist (mmorford@sfgate.com)
Friday, October 13, 2006
Iwas a little unprepared. The commercial came on and I heard the familiar ukulele strums of the late Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's famous and famously beautiful version of "Over the Rainbow (http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?playlistId=6920402&s=143441&i=6920394)" (I know, but it really is quite lovely) and my first reaction was merely to cringe and wince as yet another exquisite and plaintive song was whored out to the advertising demons, just one of thousands.

But then came the barrage of images: the requisite shot of the Perfect Mom feeding her Perfect Child some sort of Perfect Food, all bathed in soft morning breakfasty light with happy trees peeking through the windows of the Perfect Kitchen in some utopian hunk of Perfect America, a bizarre scene that of course does not exist anywhere on this planet given how there weren't three empty wine bottles and some used underwear and a stack of dirty dishes and a fresh bottle of Xanax and an open newspaper offering up giant headlines about murders and nuclear warheads and Korean sex slaves (http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/foreigndesk/detail?blogid=16&entry_id=9691) anywhere in sight. And then it happened. The logo. The product shot. The soothing voice-over. It was a commercial for a brand-new product: Kellogg's Organic Rice Krispies. And your heart goes, Ugh.

You say it aloud and the words tend to catch in your throat and make you sort of gag. Kellogg's Organic Rice Krispies, with "organic" in big scripted flowing font across the top of the box, all steeped in bogus warmth and happiness and false notions of health and nature and protecting your Perfect Child from the millions of icky poisons and unhealthy crap churned out by giant megacorps exactly like, well, exactly like Kellogg's. Kellogg's Organic Rice Krispies. It's sort of like saying "Lockheed Martin Granola Bars" or "Exxon Bottled Spring Water." Self-immolating, and not in a good way. That's when I heard it. The plaintive wail, the sigh, the crack and the moan and the whimper, like a tree shooting itself in the head. It was the final death knell of the "true" organic movement, breathing its last. Because yes indeed, it's over. Organic is dead.

Corporations have officially bought it out, the USDA has weakened its definition to near death, Whole Foods has made it chic and popular and profitable and yet has compromised its integrity like no other by being forced to pretty much ignore small, local farms and ideas of sustainability in favor of staggering commercial growth. And now this.

Did you know? Did you already understand the real definition? Because that's what "organic" was really supposed to mean, way back when: local, sustainable, ethical, connected to source, pesticide- and hormone-free. But the vast majority of organic product now flooding the market only gloms on to that last aspect (and sometimes, barely even that), to meet the USDA's impotent organic guidelines. Ah, government. There's just nothing like it to make you want to smack yourself in the skull with a brick.

One example: Stonyfield Farm's organic yogurt. As BusinessWeek points out (http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_42/b4005001.htm), the stuff is made not on an idyllic working farm like the one on the label but rather in a giant industrial factory. They get their milk trucked in from a whole range of suppliers and it's possible they will soon begin to import some of their organic ingredients -- in dried, powdered form -- from New Zealand, so as to meet national demand, delivering it all over the country via pollutive trucking companies. This is the harsh reality, the real cost of mainstream organic. There apparently aren't enough happy small, Earth-conscious local farms around to produce this stuff in sufficient quantities to feed the entire Wal-Mart nation. Massive compromises have been made. And those compromises mean "organic" is a shell of its former self.

"Organic," according to the lobbyist-friendly USDA, does not have to mean the food is grown using sustainable (read: nondestructive) farming practices. It does not mean locally produced. It does not mean the ethical treatment of animals. Nor does it mean the companies that produce it need be the slightest bit fair or trustworthy or socially responsible. All it means now: no pesticides, no chemical fertilizers, no bioengineering. So is that enough? After all, the fact that megaproducers like Kellogg's and General Mills (http://www.cascadianfarm.com/products/default.aspx) and frightening discount megaretailers like Wal-Mart (http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/mar2006/nf20060329_6971.htm) are going big into organic certainly will translate into an enormous reduction in chemicals in the American diet, thousands if not (eventually) millions of pounds of pesticides and hormones and fertilizer removed from the food chain as a whole. The benefits of this cannot be understated: It's a great thing indeed. But there's a massive snag: Thousands of products now claim to be organic, but many merely replace the chemicals and pesticides with a slew of other industrial, pollutive, destructive processes that easily offset any health benefits -- most notably the extra shipping and global delivery these "industrial organic" producers employ to obtain and deliver organic ingredients, which pumps so many chemicals back into the environment it probably counteracts all those saved in growing the stuff in the first place. (On that note, if you're going to read one astounding book on the subject of farming, organics, fast food, and the American diet overall, let it be Michael Pollan's "The Omnivore's Dilemma (http://www.amazon.com/Omnivores-Dilemma-Michael-Pollan/dp/1594200823/)." He maps it all out far better than I ever could. It's your must-read of the summer, even though it's now fall.)

Whole Foods? Perhaps the greatest mixed blessing of all, an amazing company that has single-handedly done more to bring the organic movement to the mainstream and raise awareness of healthy foods and improve farming and meat-quality standards across the board, not to mention the pleasures of food shopping overall. Yet at the same time, merely by its sheer size and success, they've simultaneously done more to dilute the real meaning of "organic" than any other company. Put another way: Unless you shop at farmers' markets or quasi-hippie co-ops or unless you do your homework and find a true family-run farm within 100 miles of your home and establish a relationship with them and really begin to buy local, the odds that the next "organic" product you buy truly meets the original definition is about as likely as finding real breasts at the Playboy mansion.

And for now, maybe this is just the way it has to be. Which brings us back to Kellogg's Organic Rice Krispies. Industrial to the hilt, not the slightest bit locally grown, not the slightest bit sustainable, from the same company that poisons your kid with Pop-Tarts and Froot Loops and Scooby-Doo Berry Bones and cares about as much for the health of the planet as Dick Cheney cares about pheasants. And of course, they ship the crap all over the country in planes and trucks that burn enough oil to make Bush leer and the oil CEOs grin and it's all just one big happy joke. On you. But hey, at least they're helping remove millions of pounds of chemical crap from the food chain, right? At least they pretend to care. Problem is, they've merely replaced those chemicals with an even more toxic additive: hypocrisy. Now, can you swallow it?

Mark Morford at Litquake '06! Come hear Mark read as part of the "Emperor Norton Lives: Only in S.F. Authors" group, all part of the famed SF Lit Crawl (http://www.litquake.org/the-festival/lit-crawl/) this Saturday, October 14 at the City Art Gallery. Full details at litquake.org (http://litquake.org/)!
Thoughts for the author? E-mail him (mmorford@sfgate.com).
http://www.sfgate.com/templates/columnists/morford/graphics/headshotBWpoint-80x120.jpg (http://www.sfgate.com/columnists/morford/a/)

[sopheetsa]

Hi folks:

This whole "Death of Organic" may be looked at in a different light. Organic food and farming-- is making bigger and bigger inroads into mass consciousness. Hence it is becoming a larger and larger threat to large scale agri-business. So we're going to see controversy stirring up as part of the attempt to keep people from going "organic". The same is happening with all manner of "aternative" health approaches. This is what makes it all the more important to stay really informed-- because there are going to be a lot of so called "natural" products out there that aren't, and likewise, there will be a lot of "blaming" going on....Oh, and btw, peanutterb, since you mentioned it in this last post-- someone else (at my Institute) recently told me about Mike Pollan's "The Omnivore's Dilemma." (http://www.michaelpollan.com/omnivore.php#) Maybe this means I have to check it out!

http://www.michaelpollan.com/OmnivoresDilemma_med.jpg

mtmouse, wanted to tell you-- even though I've been using Dr. B's (Bronner's) soap for years-- and READ that you can use it for everything.... including hair, floor, and birth control, it wasn't till I saw your post and was running low on my t.p (that's tooth paste, not toilet paperhttp://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/icons/icon10.gif) that I decided-- what the hey, why not try it last night? Sure enough, it didn't taste the best-- but it did leave my teeth feeling clean, so I used it again this morning! Thanks.;).

soph

[mtmouse]

mtmouse wanted to tell you-- that even though I've been using Dr. B's (Bronner's) soap for years-- and READ that you can use it for everything.... including hair, floor, and birth control, it wasn't till I saw your post and was running low on my t.p. that I decided-- what the hey, why not try it. Sure enough, it didn't taste the best-- but it did leave my teeth feeling clean! So thanks.http://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/icons/icon10.gif

soph

Oh Sophie, you at first confused me, and then had me rolling on the floor laughing!

Birth control? WTF? :D

And then t.p.? Now who on THIS site would you expect to know that means TOOTHPASTE??????!

http://www.freesmileys.org/emo/happy001.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org)

Now, on a more serious note (!), after reading whatever it was that got me brushing with Dr. B's, I did a few tests. I also have Sensodyne toothpaste which I'd used from time to time for my gum sensitivity. I also use something called Xyliwhite. Well, I tried both of those again and tested for pH, and sure enough they also make my mouth alkaline! That was a surprise.

But mostly I use the Dr. B's now anyway. So far I can't say I can "feel my enamel growing" or anything. I still have some sensitivity, and I do think I can see gum recession and I think it's greater than before my cleanses, but I'll find out more about that next spring when I see the dentist again (which I'm currently loath to do because I don't want the hygienist to "test" my teeth when I tell her they hurt!).

Anyway, for me the jury's still out.

[sopheetsa]

glad you were laughing on that one-- mtmouse!

btw, on the issue of "sensitive teeth"... I had seriously sensitive teeth during 2 out of three of my cleanses-- and part of what Peterhttp://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/icons/icon6.gif says-- is that this may be due to needing to replenish your mineral reserves, which means having plenty of GREENS. But with all your green, err, purple http://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/smilies/eek.gif smoothies-- you're already doing that--right mtmouse???http://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/smilies/confused.gifhttp://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/smilies/biggrin.gif http://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

[mtmouse]

glad you were laughing on that one-- mtmouse!

btw, on the issue of "sensitive teeth"... I had seriously sensitive teeth during 2 out of three of my cleanses-- and part of what Peterhttp://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/icons/icon6.gif says-- is that this may be due to needing to replenish your mineral reserves, which means having plenty of GREENS. But with all your green, err, purple http://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/smilies/eek.gif smoothies-- you're already doing that--right mtmouse???http://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/smilies/confused.gifhttp://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/smilies/biggrin.gif http://therawfoodsite.com/forum/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

Well, I sure am now. I had sensitive "teeth" (it's actually the nerve endings at the gum line, it seems) before MC1. During MC1 it got much, much worse, but stopped pretty much immediately after. No green smoothies that time.

Then by MC2 I had learned to drink water after and to brush my teeth more often (still with my regular toothpastes--which do have glycerin) and I had no sensitivity whatsoever.

But as soon as I started the OJ (and stopping my compulsive rinsing and brushing, not realizing I should continue), the sensitivity came back with a vengeance and stuck around for weeks despite all my best efforts (and despite a lot of green smoothies by that time and checking my mouth alkalinity a lot and finding it alkaline each time).

So I just don't know what to think (or do) at this point. I certainly had the problem before the MC, but it does seem like the cleanses exacerbated it greatly. But, of course, I could be assigning "false cause" there. Only time will tell, I suspect (and more cleanses).

[Bella Vita]

Can I still eat sushi?!!

[sopheetsa]

funny u should ask about sushi Bella Vita!-- i'm about to have some (and it's raw!) :)

but hey-- who makes the rules anyway?

mtmouse

I was getting slightly sensitive "teeth"-- this last MC... I think it was the teeth??? hard to tell...

[Bella Vita]

funny u should ask about sushi Bella Vita!-- i'm about to have some (and it's raw!) :)

but hey-- who makes the rules anyway?

Seriously sopheetsa I am so excited about sushi with my boyfriend (who is also doing the cleanse) a couple days after we break the fast. YAY! And kudos to you for eating some right now... as much torture as it is... I'm on my second day of my first cleanse.... but I will survive.

[sopheetsa]

look, I'm sure there are people who have reasons not to eat it-- (and they can tell us what they are...;))

Good luck on your cleanse, I just answered you on the other forum....

http://www.therawfoodsite.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1602

and back to the cleanse for me (I think, I hope)-- so see you there on the other side!

[mtmouse]

Hi Soph,

After I wrote that last post, I did notice some sensitive spots which did seem to be on my teeth (as opposed to just my gum line).

I've been using the Castile soap as toothpaste ever since I read PB's article, and for whatever reason my sensitivity does seem to be diminishing.

However, among the points made in the article were that Castile soap makes the mouth alkaline and that toothpastes with glycerin end up putting a coating on the teeth that affects the enamel somehow (I don't have the post in front of me now).

So: I tested and found out that all my toothpastes (Castile soap, Xyliwhite, and even Sensodyne) leave my mouth alkaline.

And on my container of Castile soap, it says it's made from olive oil with retained free glycerin.

So what's a girl to do? :D

[sopheetsa]

hey mtmouse
i think of u everytime I brush my teeth now- and yes-- I'm using Bronner's (ever since I saw your post). God-- it does taste like soap though and I NEVER GET USED TO IT. :(

[mtmouse]

I use Dr B's baby mild soap. And I put peppermint extract into it.

I'm fine unless I use too much and it foams up! :p

[sopheetsa]

hmmm--- that sounds like a thought. I'll have to wait till I'm through w my GALLON of peppermint (but somehow the thought of ADDING peppermint extract is a bit too much for me...) ;)

[CitrusB]

I am a little overwhelmed at all the info out there regarding raw foods-some of the equipment needed( Vita-mixer,grinder,blender, juicer) i have had for years but have no idea how to use them for preparing raw foods- is there one or two ez-to-understand books i could get that would narrow some of this down?
any suggestions would be helpful . thanks CitrusB

[peanutterb]

I am a little overwhelmed at all the info out there regarding raw foods-some of the equipment needed( Vita-mixer,grinder,blender, juicer) i have had for years but have no idea how to use them for preparing raw foods- is there one or two ez-to-understand books i could get that would narrow some of this down?
any suggestions would be helpful . thanks CitrusB

I was raw for two weeks after my last cleanse and I had a blender and that worked well for me for everything. i did want to invest in a dehydrator. i found one on amazon for $60. I also got a salad spinner to wash salads and veggies and now have a food processor as well. However, you don't need all the fancy stuff. I only used recipes that didn't call for a dehydrator and used my blender for everything else. it's best to start off slow and then work your way up to the more difficult recipes and equipment. make sure you're going to stick with it first.
also look for raw food restaurants in your area - check out www.happycow.com or www.happycow.net or .org i forget which.

[Bogi]

Hi Raw foodist,

I'm finishing my first MC in a few days and I'll be 100 % raw after it. I'd like to ask your opinion about using maple syrup. Some raw food lifestylist don't use it and they consider it as cooked food, while others still use it as raw food. It's a bit confusing to me.
Also, have you ever any of you tried raw peanutbutter? I love PB (Smucker's natural) but it's roasted so I can't have it anymore. I've eaten raw peanuts before, they aren't bad, but taste so different than roasted ones.

[Elka]

:confused: It has been 2 weeks since my first MC(15 days). I love my salad and fruits, but I also would like to try some of the raw stuff. From what I read on the PC it is pretty expensive, and with my low income I can't afford the $200 dehydrator. So, I am thinking of trying some things bought from the store (I'm not sure if I will like it).
So here is my qestion: does anyone know if there is a store in NJ where they sell raw dehydrate foods???:)

[TeePee]

hi Elka,

whole foods sells some raw "bars" and dried fruits.

[mtmouse]

I take it that rolled oats and the like cannot be considered raw? (I'm think I read somewhere that the crushing process provides enough friction to be fairly hot, and that's why they cook fast.)

I saw "raw oat flakes" on Alissa Cohen's site. If rolled oats aren't raw, could I just kind of whir up oat groats in my blender for a bit, then soak them to eat as a raw cereal?

[peanutterb]

Website Resources
www.oneluckyduck.com (http://www.oneluckyduck.com)
http://www.loloville.com/rawfoodrecipes.htm
http://www.rawfoodsnewsmagazine.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=91
http://chetday.com/bethrecipes.html
www.alissacohen.com (http://www.alissacohen.com)
http://www.shazzie.com/raw/recipes/
http://www.rawbc.org/
http://freedomsrawrecipes.blogspot.com/
http://www.rawfoodsupport.com/list.php?4
http://www.rawfoodinfo.com/home/home_a.html
www.larabar.com
http://www.rawindulgence.com/

[peanutterb]

Germinating:
1. rinse your beans, nuts or seeds, then soak them in water in a glass jar or bowl that’s covered with cheesecloth or a stocking. At room temperature.
2. Afterward, rinse and drain the germinated beans, nuts or seeds with water a couple of time.

Sprouting
Once you’ve germinated the beans or seeds, you can sprout them
1. place the germinated beans or seeds in a sprouting container, making sure that they are well drained and well ventilated. Cover the container with a fine mesh stocking or cheesecloth to keep bugs out.
2. Set thes prouting container on your counter and allow the beans or seeds to sprout for the required sprouting time
3. Rinse the sprouted nuts or seeds with purified water a couple of times and drain well
4. Once they have sprouted, you can eat them right away and for up to 5 or 6 days. Store sprouted seeds and beans in an airtight container (no vacuum-sealed) in your refrigerator.

item Germination time Sprouting time
almonds 8 -12 hours 12 hours
cashews 2 – 2.5 hrs -
chickpeas 12 hrs 12 hrs
lentils 8 hrs 12 hrs
Wild rice 9 hrs 3 -5 days
Pumpkin seeds 8 hrs 1 day
quinoa 2 hrs 1 day
Sunflower seeds 2 hrs 2 -3 days
walnuts 4 hrs -
buckwheat 6 hrs 2 days
Wheat berries 7 hrs 2 – 2.5 days