People choose to go into “raw veganism,” which is a dietary and lifestyle choice that involves consuming only raw, unprocessed plant foods. In recent years, there has been an increase in the popularity of raw vegan diets as a way to promote optimal health and wellness.
In this article, we’ll discover the surprising benefits of a raw vegan diet as well as the things that a person should eat and avoid while following the diet. Before we get started, let’s fully understand the meaning of a raw vegan diet.
What is a Raw Vegan Diet?
A raw vegan diet is a plant-based diet that involves only eating raw plant foods that have not been cooked or heated above 115 degrees Fahrenheit (46 degrees Celsius). This means that raw vegans do not eat any animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs, and they also avoid cooked, processed, and refined foods.
Instead, they consume a variety of raw vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and sprouted grains.
That’s it for what raw veganism is all about. You now know that a raw vegan diet still contains what a vegan will normally eat, with the difference being the way it is prepared with no heat.
The goal of a raw vegan diet is to consume foods that are as close to their natural state as possible to preserve the nutrients and enzymes that are often destroyed by cooking. Some people follow a raw vegan diet for health reasons, while others do it for environmental or ethical reasons.
Benefits of a Raw Vegan Diet
While it may seem restrictive, a raw vegan diet can be quite diverse and delicious, with a wide range of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and sprouts to choose from.
But beyond the tasty and satisfying meals, what are the real benefits of a raw vegan diet? Here are just a few of the surprising ways that going raw can improve your health and well-being.
Weight Loss
A raw vegan diet is naturally low in calories and high in fiber, making it an effective choice for weight loss. By choosing nutrient-dense, whole foods, you can feel satisfied without overindulging, and the fiber helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Increased Energy
Many people who switch to a raw vegan diet report feeling more energized and alert. This may be due to the high intake of nutrients and the absence of processed, high-fat foods that can weigh you down.
Improved Digestion
A diet rich in raw fruits and vegetables can improve digestion and eliminate digestive issues such as bloating and constipation. The high fiber content of a raw vegan diet helps to keep the digestive system functioning smoothly.
Clear skin
The high intake of antioxidants and other nutrients found in a raw vegan diet can lead to improved skin health. Many people report a clearing of acne and other skin issues after switching to a raw vegan lifestyle.
Disease prevention
A raw vegan diet has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The high intake of fruits and vegetables, as well as the absence of processed foods, can have a protective effect on overall health.
The Correct Way to Follow a Raw Vegan Diet
The correct way to follow a raw vegan diet involves consuming only raw, unprocessed plant-based foods and avoiding all animal products, as well as any foods that have been cooked or heated above 118°F (48°C).
If you’re interested in following a raw vegan diet, here are some tips to help you get started:
Eat a Variety of Raw, Whole Foods
This includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, sprouted grains, and legumes. Some people also include raw fermented foods, such as sauerkraut and kimchi, in their diet.
Stay Hydrated
It’s important to drink plenty of water on a raw vegan diet, as it can help flush toxins from your body and keep you hydrated. You can also include other hydrating drinks, such as herbal teas, coconut water, and fresh fruit and vegetable juices.
Plan Your Meals and Snacks
To ensure that you’re getting a balanced diet, it’s important to plan your meals and snacks. This can help you make sure you’re getting enough nutrients and avoiding any deficiencies.
Eat a Variety of Raw Foods
To get all the nutrients your body needs, it’s important to eat a variety of raw foods. This includes a mix of different types of fruits and vegetables, as well as nuts, seeds, sprouted grains, and legumes.
Consider Taking Supplements
Some people following a raw vegan diet may need to take supplements to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients their body needs. For example, vegans may need to supplement with vitamin B12, as this nutrient is found almost exclusively in animal products.
Foods to Eat on a Raw Vegan Diet
- Fruits: All types of fresh, whole fruits are allowed on a raw vegan diet. This includes apples, bananas, berries, citrus fruits, and tropical fruits.
- Vegetables: All types of fresh, whole vegetables can be included in a raw vegan diet. This includes leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, root vegetables, and others.
- Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds can be a good source of protein and healthy fats on a raw vegan diet. Some options include almonds, cashews, chia seeds, and flax seeds.
- Sprouted grains and legumes: Sprouting grains and legumes can make them easier to digest and can increase their nutritional content. Some options include sprouted lentils, chickpeas, and quinoa.
- Raw fermented foods: Some people choose to include raw fermented foods, such as sauerkraut and kimchi, in their diet. These foods can provide beneficial bacteria for the gut.
Foods to Avoid on a Raw Vegan Diet
- Cooked or processed foods: All cooked and processed foods should be avoided on a raw vegan diet. This includes foods that have been heated above 118 °F (48 °C), as well as foods that have been packaged or preserved.
- Animal products: All animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey, should be avoided on a raw vegan diet.
- Refined sugars and oils: Refined sugars and oils should be avoided on a raw vegan diet, as they are highly processed and can have negative effects on health.
- Alcohol: Alcohol, as a processed and refined product, should be avoided on a raw vegan diet.
- Caffeine: Some people choose to avoid caffeine on a raw vegan diet, as it can have negative effects on the body, such as increasing heart rate and disrupting sleep. However, others may choose to include small amounts of caffeine in their diet in the form of raw cacao or green tea.
- Salt: It’s important to avoid added salt on a raw vegan diet, as it can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems. Instead, try using herbs and spices to add flavor to your meals.
Bottom Line
By following these raw vegan diet guidelines, you are sure to get a balanced, nutrient-dense diet. It’s also important to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed.
If you’re new to this type of diet, it may be helpful to work with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to ensure that you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs.
Overall, the key to a successful raw vegan diet is to focus on whole, unprocessed plant-based foods and to vary your intake to ensure a diverse range of nutrients. By doing so, you can enjoy the potential health benefits of this type of diet while also staying nourished and satisfied.
Whether you’re looking to lose weight, increase energy, or just feel your best, a raw vegan diet is worth exploring. So why not give it a try and discover the surprising benefits for yourself?
