The Benefits of Eating Raw

Nowadays, there’s a lot of buzz going around about the benefits of consuming raw foods—radiant skin, weight loss, heightened energy, lighter mood, and better overall health to name a few! As appealing as it may sound, not everyone is interested in becoming a hardcore, vegan, raw foodist—that’s totally okay with me! You’ll be glad to know that simply incorporating a few more raw foods into your daily regimen can still offer some fantastic benefits!

My Story

I began my journey in November of 2009—deciding to eat a salad for lunch each day instead of cooked food, and an occasional green smoothie to replace my American-style breakfast of scrambled eggs and sausage. I noticed my energy increase when I ate raw, and I no longer got sick—no colds, no flus, no congestion! Over the past few years of trial-and-error, I have become quite skilled at preparing delicious meals for myself, and maintaining a healthy balance of nutrients. As a result of simply consuming more organic, nutrient-rich raw foods, I am in the best shape I’ve ever been! I’ve lost over 50 pounds, I still never get sick, my energy levels are always through the roof, and I feel more peaceful!

Raw Food Essentials

Never mind the hype out there about eating raw, there’s absolutely no need for special equipment (i.e. a food dehydrator, Vitamix, sprout bag, etc.). I’ll be the first to say that I do not own any ‘fancy’ equipment besides the usual kitchen essentials—as in my $17 Sunbeam blender that I purchased 10 years ago, which still works just fine! I also have a $20 food processor from Kmart—that’s it folks, I’m a simple gal!

My Green Cleansing Smoothie

From my kitchen to yours, I’d like to share the recipe for my ‘Green Cleansing Smoothie.’ It’s very easy to make, and you will love its anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and tonifying actions in the body. This delicious blend is jam-packed with fiber and micronutrients—calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamins A, C, E, K, energizing B vitamins, folate, and much more! Drink it as a meal replacement, to stay hydrated due to a high water and electrolyte content, or just to get things moving with a blast of fiber—if you know what I mean! The recipe will make approximately 1½ quarts and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. What a fabulous way to get you that full daily serving of fruits and veggies!

Green Cleansing Smoothie Recipe:    

2 cups organic kale

1 cup organic chard

1 cup aloe vera juice or gel

½ cup filtered water

1 whole organic apple
1 ripe organic banana

1 whole organic pear

2 whole organic kiwifruit

1 whole organic orange, peeled

2 tbsp ginger root, peeled

1 tbsp fresh lemongrass (optional)

Just toss everything in a blender, and enjoy within 48 hours. Also feel free to substitute your favorite fruits!

-Rainfaerie