Getting Raw: 9 Raw Foods To Include in Your Diet

 Many of the processed foods in our diets are enriched with essential minerals and vitamins. However, these "added"  vitamins and minerals are typically  from a non-food (man-made) source and the human body can not properly utilize these nutrients. For instance, calcium from a natural source (yogurt, leafy greens, or almonds) will go to the teeth and bones. On the other hand, calcium from a non-food source might deposit in the kidneys, joints, arteries, and even the brain (oh my...kind of scary). Hence, the best source of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients are found in raw foods. The human body was made to utilize these nutrients in a natural, raw state.

So...you know what this means right? You have to start eating more fruits and vegetables. To help you get started take a look at raw foods I enjoy eating...

Berries: Rich in antioxidants, low in sugar and high in fiber. The antioxidant properties can help improve immune function and reduce the risk for chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. Berries contain phytochemicals and flavonoids that may help to prevent some forms of cancer.

Avacado: High in fiber, potassium, vitamin E, and healthy unsaturated fats. Good source of protein and enzymes. Great source of vitamin K, potassium, folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin C, copper, and fiber. Helps lower high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Coconut Products: Coconut water is rich in electrolytes such as potassium. Coconut meat has a small amount of protein and healthy fats. It's also high in fiber, four times that of oat bran and twice that of flaxseed meal. It's also a good source beneficial minerals such as, manganese, copper, selenium, iron,  phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. Coconut has been shown to boost the immune system.

Raw Green Vegetable Juice: High in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help gently rid the body of toxins. See "Green Giants" post for more benefits of green vegetables.

Raw Honey: High in essential vitamins, enzymes, and other useful nutrients (carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes and phytonutrients). Promotes healthy digestion and healing.

Raw Olives & Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A great source of flavorful healthy fats. Olives are an excellent source of minerals (potassium, calcium, phosphorous, zinc, iron), vitamins (beta-carotene, vitamin E, D and K), antioxidants, phytonutrient (polyphenols) flavonoids, and fiber. Beware...keep away from the olives that are in brine (salt water) because they are very high in sodium.

Raw Dairy Products: Raw dairy products from cows, sheep, or goats include: milk, kefir, cream, yogurt, and cottage cheese. All are rich in probiotics, enzymes, and vitamins that are destroyed by heat during pasteurization. Keep in mind that raw dairy products are not legal in all states. I'm a bit leery about this raw food, thus I limit the amount of dairy products I eat...I have a "slight" allergy to dairy. Also, I recommend that dairy products be organic. Just a personal opinion. 

Seeds & Nuts: Great source of essential fats (omega-6 and omega-3), protein, minerals, zinc, and other life-enhancing nutrients. Good for the cardiovascular system and brain function. High in fiber. 

Raw Chocolate: Has one the highest antioxidant values than any other natural food in the world. Great for strengthening the cardiovascular system and  immune system. Is a good source of the minerals (magnesium, sulphur, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, potassium, and manganese) plus some of the B Vitamins. Okay, okay, I must confess that I don't really eat chocolate (I don't like it..and no I'm not wierd) but I figured most people do so I put it on the list anyway.

*some of the infomation was sourced from Amazing Wellness Magazine (Winter 2011)