Popular Dietary Models - Raw Food Diet

Question 1

Raw Food Diet

Answer 1

Based solely or predominately on raw, unprocessed foods:
* Vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and sprouted grains and beans are consumed in their raw state.
* Some people also consume raw eggs and dairy; less commonly, raw meat and fish are included.
* Food is considered raw if it has never been heated above 40‒48°C (temp. range depending on source).
* Advocates believe it is the most nutritious way to eat food as cooking destroys enzymes and a range of nutrients, especially vitamin C, B vitamins and chlorophyll.

Question 2

Benefits:

Answer 2

• High in fibre, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.
• Based on fruits and vegetables which are alkalising.
• Avoids issues with high-heat cooking that can generate carcinogenic compounds such as heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
• Suits those with hot constitutions (cooling and calming).

Question 3

Disadvantages::

Answer 3

• Raw foods are cold / cooling, and are not suitable for cold constitutions.
• Not suitable for those with impaired digestion or lowered vitality.