The idea of eating only raw foods has existed since the middle of the nineteenth century when Presbyterian minister and dietary reformer Sylvester Graham promoted it as a way to avoid illness. Juicing, dehydrating, fermenting, blending, soaking, and sprouting are generally used as an alternative to traditional cooking methods. It is a diet that consists of fruits, vegetable, seeds, legumes, nuts, and spouted grains. But...is it better for your health? Eating a raw diet can come with many great health benefits. It can help lower the chances of heart disease and diabetes simply because of all the added fruits, vegetables and healthy fats that are found in a raw food diet. Most of which contain high amounts of fiber which aides in digestion. Certain grains, legumes and seeds can have added benefits through sprouting and soaking. One of my favorite recipes for eating raw is muesli. It is can be made in many different ways. Here at The Grain Market we combine rolled oats, chia Seeds, pepitas, sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and a few dried cranberries. Serve in a bowl covered with your favorite milk and any fresh fruit you may have on hand. It is filling and delicious! There are a few things to be aware of if you are consuming only raw foods. Certain vitamins like B12, Iodine, and calcium are naturally lacking in a completely raw diet. Some foods like tomatoes, mushrooms, asparagus, and broccoli are know to gain nutritional value when they are cooked. For optimal health stick to advice given by the great ancient philosopher Epicurus - "Be moderate in order to taste the joys of life in abundance".
Be Happy and Healthy,
The Grain Market