Raw Foods

I have decided to do a 7 day juice detox, so that I can have a fresh start for a raw foods diet. My husband and I have tried to maintain a more organic and healthier food plan at our home ever since the birth of our first child, but it can be difficult. However, with so many changes being made to our food I feel it is worth it!

You can understand how grave the situation has become when the American Academy of Pediatrics is stepping up and saying enough is enough. (read their statement here)

Decisions to limit or ban substances should be based on "reasonable levels of concern" instead of waiting until it becomes clear that exposure triggers deaths and diseases. (AAP)

Not only do we have to worry about toxic chemicals in our food, but also the effects of genetically-modified food on our health. With so many issues arising our food supply, I feel this is the most important time to really regain control of you life through the food you choose for yourself and your family to consume.

A good place to start is Natalie Rose's book The Raw Food Detox Diet: The Five-Step Plan for Vibrant Health and Maximum Weight Loss. It is a great book on juicing and she has some great recipes (I LOVE the Green Lemonade).

As for raw foods, they principle behind raw foods is to keep your diet alkalized.  

A raw foodist is someone that eats 75-100% live, nutritionally-dense organic uncooked and unprocessed food (and drinks pure, live water), enjoying delicious meals that optimize your health by alkalizing your body. At that rate your elimination system can get rid of the toxins created when you cook. But when you eat more cooked food you are consuming acidic toxins faster than your body can eliminate them so they back up, disrupting your body's delicate acid/alkaline balance, a major cause of excess weight and disease. Heating food above 118 degrees F. causes the chemical changes that create acidic toxins, including the carcinogens, mutagens and free-radicals associated with diseases like diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and cancer. Cooking also destroys the live enzymes that aid in digestion and health. (Raw Food Life) 

 I am personally going to try to hit 75% raw foods. I feel this is a relatively easy diet to maintain. It is simple, just ensure that 75% of your plate is raw, uncooked fruits or veggies. The other 25% can be whatever you like! (Preferable organic) By ensuring that 75% of your diet is raw, you are ensuring that you body is capable of eliminating the toxins that enter your body either through your food or environment.

Anyone else have experience with a raw foods diet?