One of the questions I often hear is whether or not exercising is necessary since we’re already eating a healthy raw food diet.
There is a common misconception that just eating a better diet is enough to gain better health or lose weight. Yes, eating is one main part of the equation, but it’s only one part of the big picture.
As one transitions to the raw/vegan lifestyle, the tendency to overeat fats, mostly in the form of nuts is quite common.
It’s understandable to eat large amounts of nuts when transitioning… they are more “filling” than fruits and vegetables and satisfy the hunger as your body adjusts.
In the long term, this can lead to many problems. In his book, The Raw Secrets, Frederic Patenaude describes this in detail and offers alternatives to avoid the difficulties and make the necessary adjustments. A full review of his book is coming up.
Many leading raw food proponents recommend a 80/10/10 ratio… 80% carbs, 10% protein and 10% fats.
In my experience, the urge to eat larger amounts of fat diminishes over time. Eating an adequate amount of fruits and vegetables along with seeds makes up most of your daily intake, satisfies you and lets you happily keep your intake of nuts to a minimum.
Keep it healthy and raw!
When transitioning to a raw food diet, meeting others that are raw or transitioning can be quite helpful. In fact some will say it’s essential to thriving with raw food living.
Where do you find link-minded individuals interested in raw foods in your area?
One of the better places is at a raw food potluck dinner. I just attended my first potluck here in Phoenix, AZ and not only were the dishes delicious, those that I met were interesting and a pleasure to get to know. One of the important, although often overlooked parts of transitioning to a raw food lifestyle is the social aspect. You needn’t be alone. Meeting others that share a passion for better health and whole, living foods is not only fun, but helps many stay with the lifestyle, answer questions, share personal experiences and make friends that are like-minded.
A great place to find raw food events in your area is at MeetUp.com. Just look for your city and then search for either raw food or vegetarian/vegan events. MeetUp.com lists thousands of events for all sorts of interests and hobbies, and they’re adding more every day.
Go find a potluck in your area and enjoy the raw delights!
Mark
Vegan / Raw Diet
This is a colorful and delicious italian style recipe – Raw Ratatouille! It’s fast and easy to make, great for a filling fall dinner.
Here’s what you’ll need:
1 Avocado
2 Tomatoes
1/4 cup of Cilantro (optional)
2 cloves of Garlic
1 Squash
1 Tblsp Raw Tahini
1 Tsp Raw Honey
Celtic Sea Salt to taste
Here’s how you make it:
Chop up all vegetables and put in serving bowl. In a separate bowl, add tahini, honey and celtic sea salt. Mix well. Top the vegetables with this thick and tasty dressing! Serves 2.
The dressing can also be used for other dishes, including salads.
Inspired by Storm and Jinjee from their Garden Diet series.
Enjoy!
Mark
Vegan Raw Diet 
