Rejuvelacn Recipe

Rejuvelac

A simple fermented beverage made from living wheat sprouts used to improve digestion of food.  You can drink rejuvelac in the place of water or juice and the drink can be mixed in any recipe that requires water. Ann Wigmore used rejuvelac for 35 years and was convinced of its healing properties. It is best to consume this drink everyday.

Recipe

Step by step to making good rejuvelac.

Ingredients:

1 cup of soft wheat berries (also called pastry or spring wheat berries)
3 cups of water


1) Place 1 cup of wheat berries in a glass jar or stainless steel container. Do not use plastic.

2) Fill the berries with purified water* about 3 inches above the berries.

3) Place mesh on top of the container and secure with a rubber band if you do not have a sprouting jar. Do not use a a covered lid container, as the berries need air to breathe.

4) Allow the berries to soak for 8-10 hours.

5) Drain the water and rinse the berries well with purified water and drain once again.

6) Place the drained berries back in a clean jar and lay the jar at a 45 degree angle or lay the jar on its side with the mesh cover to allow for sprouting. Place the jar in a dark area for this process.

7) Rinse the berries in the morning and evening with purified water and follow step 6 until the sprouting tail is about the same length as the berry. This could take 1-3 days depending on the temperature of the room. 

8) Once the berries are sprouted, rinse them one final time in purified water.

9) Place 1 cup of sprouted berries in a large pitcher and add 3 cups of purified water.

10) Allow the mixture to sit for 48 hours at room temperature.

11) The mixture is now ready for drinking. Use immediately. The mixture will refrigerate up to 5 days. The berries are still good for a second batch.

12) To the same berries, add 2 cups of purified water and allow to sit at room temperature for 24 hours. Again, use immediately.

13) The berries can now be used to make crackers or bread in the dehydrator or can be discarded.


*Purified water is water from any source that is physically processed to remove impurities. I use reverse osmosis or natural spring water. If those are not readily available, you can use deionized water. 

Smoothie Recipes

Smoothies are a wonderful way to get nutritious foods into your system, especially for kids.  I've listed some of my smoothie recipes to show how easy it is to throw some of your favorite fruits and vegetables together to come up with delicious recipes.

Alkaline Green Smoothie
2 handfuls of spinach 1 apple, peeled
1 orange
1 banana
Juice of half a lemon 2 cups of water

Blend all items and serve.

Eden Green Smoothie
4 leaves of kale
2 Tablespoons of flax seeds*
2 cups of water
1 cup of mangos (sliced and frozen) 1 ripe banana (sliced and frozen)
1 orange

Blend all items and serve.

*Flax seeds are one of the most powerful and versatile foods on the planet. They have a hard, shiny shell that is a little larger than a sesame seed and range in color from brown to gold. They have a subtle nutty flavor. Flax seeds can be purchased as a seed or an oil at your local health food store.

Energizer Green Smoothie
3 leaves of collards 1/2 avocado
1 apple, peeled
1 banana
1 orange
1 cup of pineapple
2 mint leaves
Water from 1 young coconut 2 cups of water

Blend all items and serve.

Powerful Green Smoothie
3 leaves of green chard 1 banana
1 cup of strawberries
1 orange
2 cups of water
1 Tablespoon of ground flax seeds 1 Tablespoon of hemp seeds*

Blend all items and serve.

*Hemp seeds are known as the superior source of protein. Hemp seeds are easily digested and contain all the essential fatty acids and amino acids pertinent to sustain healthy human life. No other plant on this earth comes close. You can purchase whole hemp seeds, hulled hemp seeds, hemp seed protein powder and hemp oil.

Heavenly Green Smoothie
6 mustard green leaves
2 bananas
1 mango
1 Tablespoon of hemp seeds 2 cups of water

Blend all items and serve.

You may interchange any of the greens listed above with any type of fruit. These are just a few ideas to show you how to get your creative juices flowing.

Mango Smoothie
1 large mango 2 oranges

Blend all items and serve.

Strawberry Banana Smoothie (One of My Favorites)
2 ripe bananas (sliced and frozen)
1/2 cup of strawberries
1 cup apple juice (use a juicer to extract the juice) 1 Tablespoon of minced ginger

Blend all items and serve. 

Almond Milk Recipes

Almond milk is super easy to make and I've listed some of my favorite ways to use it.

Almond Milk

2 cups of sprouted almonds 4 cups of water
Blend items to a creamy, milky consistency. Strain mixture in a cheese cloth to remove almond granules and chill in a glass picture.

Vanilla Almond Milk
2 cups of sprouted almonds
4 cups of water
1 teaspoon of vanilla or 1 vanilla bean
Blend items to a creamy, milky consistency. Strain mixture in a cheese cloth to remove almond granules and chill in a glass picture.

Sweet Vanilla Almond Milk
2 cups of sprouted almonds
4 cups of water
1 teaspoon of vanilla or 1 vanilla bean

6-10 dates (pitted) to sweeten

Blend items to a creamy, milky consistency. Strain mixture in a cheese cloth to remove almond granules and chill in a glass picture.

Chocolate Milk
2 cups of sprouted almonds
4 cups of water
1 teaspoon of vanilla or 1 vanilla bean 6-10 dates (pitted) to sweeten
2 Tablespoons of cacao*

Blend almonds and water until a creamy, milky consistency. Strain mixture in a cheese cloth to remove almond granules. Place the strained mixture into a clean blender and add the remaining ingredients. Blend until all items are incorporated and chill in a glass picture.
*Cacao is a wide branched evergreen and is the source of cocoa, chocolate and cocoa butter. Cacao has a nutty, chocolaty taste and can be purchased as a nut or powder at your local health food store or online.

Strawberry Milk
2 cups of sprouted almonds
4 cups of water
1 teaspoon of vanilla or 1 vanilla bean

6-10 dates (pitted) to sweeten 1 cup of strawberries

Blend almonds, water and strawberries until a pink, creamy consistency. Strain mixture to remove almond granules and strawberry seeds. Place the strained mixture into a clean blender and add the remaining ingredients. Blend until all items are incorporated. Chill in a glass picture.

You can use this method with any type of nut. Make sure you sprout or soak the nuts first and follow the same directions above. 

Hope you enjoy!

Superfoods

Superfoods

Superfoods are mega nutritious foods that offer a substantive amount of essential health benefits. These foods go beyond the basic nutritional needs, such as vitamins or proteins to protect us from the risk of many chronic diseases. Superfoods are usually low in calories and have high amounts of flavonoids and micro and macro nutrients. They are REAL unprocessed foods and have tons of antioxidants; therefore, aiding with weight management, life longevity and disease. Contrary to popular belief, superfoods are readily available at most local health food stores and are a great champion for boosting the immune system. Listed below are some of the most potent superfoods on the earth.

Bee Pollen

Bee pollen is a flower pollen collected by bees and used as a food. The pollen is extremely high in protein and carbohydrates and have trace amounts of vitamins and minerals. Bee pollen is considered an ideal dietary supplement and a boost to a well rounded diet. The pollen has very high concentrates of the B vitamin complex and contains all the nutrients you need to live.

Health Benefits- Bee pollen is a natural body energizer and is great for reducing cravings for food. Bee pollen can help to improve your cholesterol, metabolism and premenstrual syndrome in women. It is great for flushing fat cells from your body, and athletes often use it for strength, stamina and endurance.

Cacao

Cacao is a wide branched evergreen and is the source of cocoa, chocolate and cocoa butter. Cacao is full of antioxidants and is a rich source of good fats and minerals such as calcium, zinc, iron and potassium. Cacao has a nutty, chocolaty taste and can be purchased as a nut or powder.

Health Benefits- Cacao can aide against strokes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease with its high antioxidant levels. It has great benefits for insulin sensitivity in healthy persons and is a good source of the beauty mineral sulphur (which is responsible for healthy skin, nails and hair).

Chia

Chia seeds are very small seeds that provide essential omega three and omega six oils. They are very digestible and have about two times the protein concentrates and up to 10 times the oil concentrates of other grains. The chia seed is able to absorb more than 10 times its weight in water which can prolong hydration and electrolytes in the body. You can purchase chia seeds or chia oils from your local health food store or online distribution companies.

Health Benefits- Chia seeds are great for diabetics and are very effective in treating hypoglycemia. They have great benefits for digestion, the heart and mental health. They also have an excellent source of calcium, magnesium and iron.

Coconuts

Coconuts are a very unusual fruit. The oil in coconuts contains very little polyunsaturate and monounsaturated fats. The majority of fatty acids are saturated fatty acids that come from lauric acid (a great nourishment for the immune system). The best type of coconuts to consume are young coconuts.

Health Benefits- Coconut oil is known to help the body metabolize fat and aid in weight management. It is great for calcium absorption for healthy bones, hair, nails and skin and is great for the digestion system. Coconuts help to guard the digestive tract from harmful organisms such as candida and protect the liver against toxins.

Dark Greens

Dark greens such as kale, collards , spinach, etc are rich in folic acid, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium and phytochemicals. They are low in fat and high in dietary fiber.

Health Benefits- Studies have shown that a daily serving of dark green vegetables lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease by 11 percent. Green leafy vegetables are good for improving the immune system, and they help in the reduction of certain types of cancers, heart disease and stroke.

Flax seeds

One of the most powerful and versatile foods on the planet. Flax seeds have a plethora of fiber, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids and are extremely low in carbohydrates. They have a subtle nutty flavor. They have a hard, shiny shell that is a little larger than a sesame seed and range in color from brown to gold. Flax seeds can be purchased as a seed or an oil.

Health Benefits- Because flax seeds are associated with a reduction in total cholesterol, they are pivotal in fighting diabetes, cancer, constipation, inflammation, menopausal symptoms, heart disease and the blues, just to name a few.

Goji Berries

Goji berries are shriveled red berries that resemble raisins. Goji berries are very rich in antioxidants. They are also rich in carotenoids such as beta carotene and zeaxanthin (a compound found in the retina of the eye). They have a tangy, sweet and sour taste.

Health Benefits- Goji Berries have been used for about 6,000 years in Tibet, India and China. Goji berries aid in improved circulation, eyesight and sexual function and fertility. They also help to protect the liver, strengthen the legs, boost immune function and promote longevity.

Hemp

Hemp seeds are produced from the hemp plant and are considered the most nutritionally complete food in the world. Hemp seeds are known as the superior source of protein. Hemp seeds are easily digested and contain all the essential fatty acids and amino acids pertinent to sustain healthy human life. No other plant on this earth comes close. You can purchase whole hemp seeds, hulled hemp seeds, hemp seed protein powder and hemp oil.

Health Benefits- Hemp seeds provide necessary amino acids to the body, and they help to enhance the immunity and detoxification of the body. Hemp seeds have been known to aid in the cure of autism and lyme disease.

Maca

Maca is a Peruvian radish like root. Maca contains two of the three essential fatty acids (oleic and linoleic). It contains 18 amino acids and a host of vitamins and minerals. Maca is known to increase energy, endurance, strength and libido. You can purchase maca root powder from health food stores or online distribution companies. Maca has a malty strong taste to it and is usually used in smoothies.

Health Benefits- Maca is great for energy rejuvenation, hormonal regulation, menopausal treatments and anti depressants. Maca is great for the revitalization of sex and libido in seniors, and maca also aids in the mental and physical enhancement in seniors.

Spirulina

Spirulina is a blue green algae and is considered one of the most nutrient rich whole foods. Spirulina is about a 70 percent complete protein with all essential amino acids in perfect balance and has a photosynthetic conversion rate of about 10 percent. It contains nutrients, including B complex vitamins, beta-caortene, vitamin E, manganese, copper, iron selenium and zinc.

Health Benefits- Spirulina helps removes toxic metals from the body, improves healing of wounds, counteracts toxins

in the body and purifies the liver. Spirulina also fights viral infections and improves the immune and nervous systems. Finally, spirulina helps with weight loss, mental alertness and blood sugar problems.

Wheatgrass

Wheat grass looks like lawn grass and is considered one of the easiest grass to grow. Wheat grass contains one of the highest concentrations of essential nutrients and chlorophyll. Wheat grass can be consumed by extracting the juice with a proper juicer.

Health benefits- Wheat grass can aid in the prevention of heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Wheatgrass is also thought to aid digestion, alleviate constipation, and cleanse the liver. Some state that wheatgrass can help with hair loss, blood purifying and menopause.

Raw Food Breakfast Recipes

Here are some of my favorite recipes.

Wild Rice Breakfast

1/2 cup of wild rice (sprouted)
1/4 cup of apples, chopped
1 Tablespoon of sprouted almonds
1 Tablespoon of raisins (unsulfured)* 
1/4 cup of almond milk 
1 Tablespoon of agave
Dash of vanilla
Dash of cinnamon

Place all items but agave and milk in a bowl and mix thoroughly. Pour agave and almond milk over mixture and serve.

*Unsulfured means to process without sulfur which causes allergic reactions.

Live Cereal

1 cup of sprouted almonds
1/2 cup of sprouted sunflower seeds
1/4 cup of raisins (unsulfured)
1/4 cup of goji berries
1/4 cup of shredded coconut
Agave to taste
1 cup of vanilla almond milk

Place all items but agave and milk in a bowl and mix thoroughly. Pour agave and almond milk over mixture and serve.

Chocolate Buckwheat Cereal

2 cups of buckwheat groats*, soaked for at least an hour and dried
2 Tablespoons of sprouted almonds, chopped Agave to taste
1 Tablespoon of raw cacoa* powder 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
1 teaspoon of vanilla

Place all items in a food processor and pulse until the consistency of a liquid like oatmeal. Do not overly puree. Spread mixture on a *teflex sheet and dehydrate at 115 degrees for 4-8 hours. Flip to dry the other side for another 4-8 hours. When completely dry, break into pieces and store in glass airtight container or keep in the refrigerator.
Place 1 cup of the dried mixture into a bowl. Pour vanilla almond milk over mixture and serve.

*Teflex Sheet is a thin flexible sheet that you put on top of a dehydrator screen to ensure that drippy things do not end up falling through the screen.

*Buckwheat Groats are whole, raw or white buckwheat kernels, and is one of the quickest sprouts there is.

*Cacao is a wide branched evergreen and is the source of cocoa, chocolate and cocoa butter. Cacao has a nutty, chocolaty taste and can be purchased as a nut or powder at your local health food store or online.

Breakfast Bars

1 cup of dates (pitted)
1 cup of sprouted almonds, chopped
1 cup of sprouted cashews, chopped
1 cup of buckwheat groats, soaked for at least an hour and dried

Place dates in the food processor and blend until smooth. Place nuts and groats in a large bowl and mix thoroughly with your hands. Add the smooth date mixture to the nuts and groats and knead to a dough roll. Divide the dough into 8 portions. Each portion should be about 1/2 cup. Create a bar shape with each portion and place in the refrigerator for at least an hour to set.

Fruit Salad

3/4 cup of bananas, chopped
3/4 cup of apple, chopped
3/4 cup of strawberry, chopped
3/4 cup of blueberry, chopped
3/4 cup of sprouted almonds, chopped 1/4 cup of shredded coconut
2 Tablespoons of agave

Mix all items in a large bowl and serve.

Granola Cereal with Chocolate Milk

1 cup of sprouted walnuts, finely chopped
1 cup of sprouted hemp seeds, finely chopped
1 cup of sprouted buckwheat seeds (they will take about 2-3 days to sprout and dry)
1 cup of sprouted sunflower seeds, finely chopped 1 cup of shredded coconuts
1 cup of dried cranberries
1 cup of raisins
1 cup of chocolate almond milk page 
Place all items but the chocolate milk in a large bowl and mix thoroughly with your hands. Store the mixture in a tightly, enclosed glass jar for longevity. Put 1 cup of the mixture in a small bowl and add chocolate almond milk. 

Hope you  enjoy!

How To Sprout On The Raw Food Diet

Sprouting is a process where you soak, drain and rinse nuts and or seeds in regular intervals until they germinate or sprout. Many nuts and or seeds have different sprouting times than others. Sprouts can be divided into two areas; those that are grown as small green plants (mainly eaten raw), and those that are grown to improve the nutritional qualities of seeds (mainly grains and beans). 

The main benefit of sprouting is to awaken raw nuts or seeds and bring them to life. During the sprouting process, newer and greater quality of nutrients and proteins are produced. This process enhances digestion. Sprouted foods contain a rich supply of enzymes which allow the body to easily utilize and metabolize food.

Another benefit of sprouting is that it removes enzyme inhibitors which can be harmful to the body. This can result in a host of problems such as gastrointestinal abnormalities and an enlarged pancreas. Enzyme inhibitors are chemicals in the nut and or seed designed to preserve the life force within the food. The inhibitors lay dormant until the plant or tree is ready. It is actually safer to consume a heated nut or seed than a raw, unsprouted nut or seed.

Best Conditions for Sprouting

Sprouting conditions are very important for longevity. The five most important conditions for sprouting are air, water, warmth, space and light.

Air

Sprouts need air to breathe and flourish; therefore, it is important to NOT put them in sealed containers. Without proper ventilation, they will mold, rot and succumb.

Water

Sprouts need purified water for soaking and rinsing. Two forms of good water are spring water and reverse osmosis water. Reverse osmosis is a filtration process that removes dissolved salts and metallic ions from water by forcing it through a semipermeable membrane. This process is highly effective in removing microbes from water. Sprouts need water every twelve hours at least, and more if it is hot and humid. It is important to not drown sprouts. If so, they will choke. If you let them dry, they will die.

Warmth

Sprouts need to be kept warm to grow and germinate. The best temperatures vary between 70 to 75 degrees. Sprouts will lose vitality and die if they get too hot, and sprouts will limit the growth process if they get too cold.

Space

Because sprouts can increase up to 30 times their size, it is important to give them space to grow. Cramming them in trays, bags or jars will force them to compete for light and air which can lead to death. Spread only a thin layer of seeds in trays and keep them mobile in bags and jars for optimal development.

Light

Many sprouts cannot use light in the first few days of growth, and many never need it. Plants that produce leaves will eventually need light to GREEN. The only time to use direct sunlight to sprout is when it is cold, but most sprouts will be fine with indirect natural light.

Sprouting Containers

The most popular sprouting containers are sprouting jars, sprouting trays and sprouting bags.

Sprouting Jars

Sprouting jars (glass jars) are best used for sprouts that need very little light such as beans and grains. It is best not to cram or overfill jars to counter poor air circulation. The best method for sprouting in jars is to use a two to one method. For every one cup of sprouts, use two cups of water. You may use any kind of jar. You will need a SCREEN type lid to cover the jar. You can purchase sprouting jars with lids from local health food stores or you can make your own lids. A simple process of cutting pieces of mesh aided with a rubber band to secure the lid makes a perfect jar cover.

Once sprout soaking is completed, invert jar, drain water and rinse. Next, prop the jar at a forty five degree angle for water to continue to drain. Rinse seeds at least two to three times daily until ready, and always keep in angled position for drainage.

Sprouting Trays

Sprouting trays are ideal for sprouts that need light because they have a large surface area to grow naturally. The best type of food to sprout in trays are greens. To sprout, cover the bottom of the tray with a thin layer of soaked seeds. Make sure the tray is at least two inches high and has drainage holes smaller than the seeds. Any type of tray can be used for this method. Use mesh in the bottom of the tray so that new sprouting roots have something to attach to. The sprouts will grow better, and they will be easier to rinse and drain. Trays will need careful rinsing in the beginning as it helps to wash away mold. Try not to move sprouts around as they root. Once they are rooted, immerse them in water. This will help to remove the hulls from the seeds.

List of foods to sprout in trays; alfalfa, buckwheat, cabbage, red clover, fenugreek, garlic, mustard, radish, sunflower (in shell), wheatgrass, adzuki, barley, chickpea, lentil, kamut, oats, green peas and hulled sunflower.

Sprouting Bags

Sprouting bags are best for foods that do not need light. Sprouting bags naturally allow air into the sprouts for optimal breathing. The bags take up less space than sprouting jars, and they are easier to rinse and drain. Just dip the bag in purified water and drain. The best type of foods to sprout in bags are pulses, grains, nuts and beans.

You can make sprouting bags by using any material that allows water and air to move and breathe freely. It is best to use hemp or linen material because their porous skin allow sprouts to breathe easily. They also do not dry their contents too quickly. Put pre-soaked seeds into a moistened sprout bag. Dip the bag in purified water for a minute and then hang to drain. On each subsequent rinse, shuffle sprouts around in the bag to prevent rooting into the fabric. Remember, grains and beans expand by three times, so do not overfill.

Sprouting Overview

When sprouting, soak seeds for at least eight hours or overnight. Make sure to soak the seeds in purified water . Try to double the amount of water to seeds. Rinse the sprouts at least every 12 hours. Drain the sprouts well by tilting at a 45 degree angle. Place sprouts into a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator. Rinse them every three days or so. Most sprouts will keep at least three weeks or longer.

FAQ Raw Food

The most popular questions about the raw food diet.
What is raw food?

Raw foods are living foods that have never been heated past 118 degrees. Because they have never been heated, they retain all their nutrients and enzymes. They are based on unprocessed, uncooked and often organic plant foods.

What is the difference between living foods and raw foods?

Raw foods and living foods both contain enzymes, but the enzyme count is much higher in living foods due to the sprouting process (soaking in water) which removes enzyme inhibitors for easier digestion. Raw, unsprouted nuts for example, contain enzymes in a dormant state.

What is sprouting?

Sprouting is a process where you soak, drain and rinse seeds in regular intervals until they germinate or sprout. Some foods and seeds have different sprouting times than others. Please refer to the sprouting page for more information.

What does the raw food diet consist of?

Raw foods consist of foods that stem from the plant to the plate. Some of these foods are uncooked fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes, nuts and seeds and grains. Also, included are; seaweed and marine plants, edible flowers, sprouts, roots, natural herbs and spices.

What is the difference between cooked food and raw food health wise?

With raw and living foods you receive all the nutrients vital for the body to operate at an optimum level. With cooked foods, enzymes are destroyed when heating above 118 degrees. Enzymes are important because they are vital for all of the bodily functions. As we age, we deplete our natural source of enzymes, so living foods are a Godsend. Cooked foods are very addictive, and in many cases toxic. Foods now have been laced with heavy loads of hormones and additives that are not easy to digest, so our health issues are more dire.

Does a person have to be 100 percent raw to benefit?

No, you can still get great benefits if you are not 100 percent raw. It depends on the person. If you decide to become 50 to 90 percent raw, you will still receive wonderful results. It is best that you limit processed and junk foods. Sometimes it is extremely difficult being 100 percent raw due to busy schedules, difficult situations and stress. A little cooked food is not going to hurt you. You can be unhealthy on the raw food diet as well if you are not eating the right raw foods. Again, it depends on the individual.

Why would someone want to eat just raw food?

The most popular answer is health. Most of the people that embrace this diet claim great strides in improvements to their physical and mental status. Other benefits include more energy, weight loss, better immune system and detoxification.

Where do raw foodist get their protein?

This is a very popular questions. First of all, every living plant cell has protein. A lot of people think that meat and dairy are the only forms of protein. Your body does not use whole proteins, it must break these down into amino acids. Plant protein generally breaks down more quickly than animal protein. Plant protein is often found already in the form of amino acids.

Can you lose weight on a raw food diet?

Yes you can. People generally lose their extra weight when they consume unprocessed, live, high enzyme foods. It is more of a plus when the food is organic as it has no toxins to break down. These high quality foods provide nutrition without stressing the digestive system. The body then gets rid of stored fat and toxic materials.

What if I have health problems, can I still eat raw?

Yes you can. A lot of times it is very helpful due to the detoxification process and the pure nutritional value you get from raw foods. Most diseases and disorders stem from poor nutrition and toxic foods we consume. Raw foods aid the digestive system which help cleanse the body, rebuild the body and heal the body. As a caution, you should always check with your doctor before starting a raw food program especially if you are extremely ill or if you are not sure about the diet.

Should I only eat organic foods?

It is best to eat only organic foods as the foods have not been compromised with pesticides, hormones, chemicals and bioengineering which are all devastating to the body. Studies have shown that organic foods are three times more nutritious than commercially grown foods. Also, organically grown foods taste ten times better than commercially grown foods.

How time consuming is raw food to prepare?

A lot of recipes take no more than 10 to 20 minutes to prepare. There are some recipes which are more involved with respect to the number of ingredients and the sprouting process. As you will see throughout the book, the food processor and the blender will do most of the work for you, thus, limiting your prep time. The longer you are on the diet, the more simple you will eat. The diet is a heaven send for really lazy people like myself.

Can I over eat on a raw food diet?

YES YOU CAN. As with any diet, you should stop eating when you are full. I always stress limiting nuts and fats because you can gain weight on this diet like any other diet. The key is to plan your meals and eat appropriate amounts. You will definitely fill more satisfied on this diet due to the nutritional value.

What are enzymes?

Enzymes are biological assistants that consist of various kinds of proteins that help drive the chemical reaction required for nutrients. In a nut shell, enzymes assist with the digestion of foods and are known as the life force of food.

Why are enzymes important?

They are important because if you do not get the proper amount of enzymes, your body becomes acidic which causes toxicity in the body, disease and weight gain.

What kitchen utensils are needed to start the diet?

The three most important items that will be used on the raw food diet are a blender, food processor and dehydrator. If you do not have all three, you can get away with just a blender. Some people use their oven to dehydrate foods by turning the oven to the lowest heating level.

How to start a raw food diet?

Some people just go for it and consume only raw foods immediately; however, you do not have to act that drastically. You can start by consuming more fruits and vegetables in a gradual manner. For example, you can eat only fruits for breakfast the first month, and gradually incorporate a salad for lunch starting the second month and so on. Your detoxification will be milder if you take this approach. 

Raw Food Celebrities

Raw food enthusiasts include many people with whom you may be familiar. Many celebrities have realized that by eating raw foods, they feel and look younger, their weight is more controlled, and their body is stronger and healthier.

Filmmaker Morgan Spurlock became well known to most Americans after the mega successful 2003 film “Super Size Me.” In the film, he documented his health as he spent 30 days eating only fast food from McDonalds. Spurlock managed to gain 25 pounds along with numerous ill side effects, including borderline impotence. Immediately after filming, Spurlock went on a raw food detox program prepared by his wife who is a raw food chef. Happily, his health improved immensely and he lost all of the extra weight.

Singers like Sting and David Bowie are raw foodists whom both have maintained healthy lifestyles. Singer Jason Mraz, who is recognized for his hit song “I’m Yours,” is a raw vegan who boasts that he is now more energized and healthy because of the diet. “Anything processed just doesn’t seem real,” Mraz said. Mraz also said that attractive women are often hanging out in natural food stores, which is an added bonus for him becoming a raw foodie.

Donna Karan, the women’s clothing designer, is also reaping the benefits of a raw food diet. At age 54, she lost 20 pounds by eating raw fruits and vegetables. She also ate nuts, grains and seeds, and says her secret is to eat what you want. “If I want chocolate cake, I have chocolate cake. If I want pizza and spaghetti, I eat pizza and spaghetti.” Those who follow the raw food diet have reported an increase in energy and an improvement in overall well being.

Carol Alt is an American supermodel and actress who posed nude in Playboy Magazine in 2008. “The only reason I look the way I do right now is because I changed my diet,” she said. “My body shows it.” She said that at age 45 she felt more healthy than when she was in her twenties. She revealed in an interview with PR.com senior editor Allison Kugel that both her father and brother died at young ages due to poor diet. She stated that if she knew then what she knows now about raw foods, she would have tried to help them. “I think about it every day.” She posted on her blog that raw foods work and could save your life.

Other celebrities like Demi Moore, Alicia Silverstone, Uma Thurman, Natalie Portman, Robin Williams, Lisa Bonet, Woody Harrelson, Charlie Trotter, Jack Lalanne, and Steve Jobs have found their lives and health improve by eating raw foods. Alicia Silverstone, best known for her role in Clueless and Batman & Robin, has been a raw foodist since 2007. She attributes her slim figure to eating raw fruits and vegetables. “There is nothing in the world that has changed me as much as this diet. I have so much more energy. It’s amazing,” she said. She has lately been working in theatrical productions and continues to be an avid animal activist.

Woody Harrelson is also an active raw vegan. By living in Hawaii, he says that organic farming and solar power dependence has helped him to realize that the foods he once thought to be safe and healthy, really were not. His family has also joined in on the food choices. “I felt like I had a lot more energy,” he said. When discussing his daughter, he said that he made a deal with her to avoid junk food until her fourth birthday.

Charlie Trotter is a chef and raw food enthusiast. He owns multiple high-quality restaurants and has written multiple cookbooks. He is often known for the food he makes, not the food he eats. Trotter supplies his restaurants with the same quality foods that he uses in his own domestic kitchen. “The taste of free-range and organic products is so much better than the alternative,” Trotter said. “It is also good to know that you are eating unadulterated food and supporting farmers and growers who are directly connected with the land.” When asked about the reason he chooses these foods, he says this: “I do not want guests walking out of the restaurant feeling as if they over-indulged because of excessive cream, butter, and alcohol. I want them to feel stimulated and alert, knowing that they will be able to look forward to breakfast the following morning.”

These celebrities have chosen the raw food diet because it is one of the healthiest diets available with impeccable results, and they want to stay fit and look younger. It is not a diet that will starve or deplete you, but rather a diet that will fulfill and nourish you. The raw food diet is laced with healthy vitamins, amino acids and nutrients and more and more celebrities are finding that longevity is attributed to what is put in the body. Because celebrities work long and vigorous hours, many are choosing a more simplified lifestyle to sustain the brutal rigors. We should all be more conscious of what is put in the body! 

Alkaline And Acidic Foods

Alkaline and Acidic Foods

Foods that elevate the amount of oxygen that your blood take in are considered alkaline foods. Foods that are raw green leafy vegetables, non sweet fruits and wheatgrass are considered the supreme alkaline foods. The opposite of alkaline foods are acidic foods.

Acidic foods are foods that we seem to like more, such as junk and processed foods, sugars, meats, bad fats, dairy products, some fruits, some grains and some nuts. When we consume too much of these foods, the blood cannot rid the body of all the waste that build up. Acid is then deposited in the organs and tissues which causes serious and harmful bacteria growth.

In a nutshell, the foods we intake into our bodies determine if we are more alkaline or acidic. If the food removes hydrogen ions from the body, it is considered alkaline. If the food adds hydrogen ions to the body, it is considered acidic. There is a ph scale that can measure the acid/ alkaline levels in the body. The scale starts from 0, which is the most acid, to 14, which is the most alkaline. An average level should read between 7.35 and 7.45.

The ph scale takes its name from the words potential of hydrogen.  You can purchase ph strips for testing at your local health food store or any ph testing company. A common ph scale is listed below. I advise everyone to get tested today and if you're overly acidic, incorporate green leafy vegetables in your diet to balance.  It's never too late to start, but we have to start.  Good luck!

PH 0-2	STRONGLY ACIDIC
PH 3-5	WEAKLY ACIDIC
PH 6-8	NEUTRAL
PH 9-11	WEAKLY ALKALINE
PH 12-14	STRONGLY ALKALINE

The Raw Food Diet 3 Healing Foods

When I enrolled in the Living Food Institute in Atlanta, I was surprise to learn that most of the people in my class were chronically ill.  They were cancer patients, HIV patients, people with severe heart problems and the likes.  I believe I was the healthiest person in the class.  I was scared shitless from a biopsy due to lumps in my breast, which thankfully turned out to be benign.

One of the requirements during class was the 3 essential foods we had to consume every day.  They were 2 ozs of wheat grass juice, at least 8 ozs of rejuvelac and as much energy soup our hearts desired.  The reason being was they were the main healing foods for the chronically ill.  I will discuss each food below, but I wanted to state that the transformation I saw in my classmates was nothing short of miraculous.  You could see the life come back in a lot of my classmates.  Everyone in the class lost weight and people who suffered from high blood pressure were showing great signs of improvement. I kid you not....it's one of the most powerful experiences in my life.

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass has one of the highest concentrations of nutrients and is one of the easiest foods to grow. The best way to abstract the potency is by juicing. Wheatgrass is very high in vitamins A, C and E and has an excellent source of vitamin B. Wheatgrass juice contains many essential minerals such as potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium and sodium which are essential for brain and body development. Wheatgrass consumption helps to fight against illnesses and helps to boost the immune system. Wheatgrass also helps to eliminate toxins in the body.  Many health experts have declared that the chlorophyll found in wheatgrass is almost the same as the haemoglobin molecule in human blood. Scientists have never found wheatgrass to be harmful or toxic to humans or animals. Wheatgrass is considered a complete food containing all the vitamins and minerals available.

The best method of getting wheatgrass into the body is by chewing it, drinking it or implanting it. Wheatgrass is often available in juice bars or health food stores. You can consume wheatgrass alone or mixed with other fruits or vegetables. You may now purchase wheatgrass in the form of fresh produce, tablets, frozen juice or powder.

Growing wheatgrass is not that difficult. In a large glass jar, soak about one cup and a half of organic wheat berries in purified water for about 10 to 12 hours. The next day drain and rinse the berries thoroughly. Cover the berries with a sprouting or mesh lid to allow proper ventilation, and place the berries in a dark, cool space for sprouting. Rinse the berries twice daily until they produce a sprouting tail about 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch. They are now ready for the sprouting tray. Line the bottom of a 21 x 11 inch sprouting tray with mesh or porous unbleached paper towels. Fill the tray about one and a half inch full with pre-moistened soil or compost, ensuring that the soil does not contain artificial fertilizers or chemicals. Lay and press the sprouted or germinated berries evenly over the moisten soil and place the tray under indirect sunlight. You can use the inside of your home near a window. Make sure the area is properly ventilated. Water the wheatgrass trays twice daily by using a spray bottle. This prevents the seeds from drying and dying. Cover the tray with a piece of dampen newspaper until the grass is about an inch high. This will take about five days. When the grass is above one inch, began to water the trays once a day. When the wheatgrass has grown to about six inches, it is then ready for harvesting. Use scissors to cut the wheatgrass just above the seed. Juice the wheatgrass in a wheatgrass juicer and enjoy the medicinal benefits of this miraculous food.

Energy Soup

Energy soup is literally a liquid salad made up of raw vegetables, fruits and herbs. According to Dr. Ann Wigmore, energy soup is one of the body’s best friends because it:

1. 1)  Gives the body’s cells fuel to be nourished which provides for self healing in the quickest possible way.
   
2. 2)  Is high-energy nourishment which provides a complete form of basic elements that are needed for rebuilding health quicker.
   
3. 3)  Helps to overcome addictions because it is easy to digest.
   
4. 4)  Can help with many other health problems that people suffer with daily, which generally have been brought on by poor nutrition, especially by overeating

In a blender, add one tablespoon of dulse or seaweed powder, about 1/3 cup of rejuvelac, a hand full of sprouted mung beans and a hand full of sprouted lentils. Blend thoroughly. Next, add a lot of greens such as sprouted sunflower greens, buckwheat lettuce, kale, cilantro, watercress and or parsley. You may use a little of all the greens listed above or use one or two of them. If the

mixture is too thick, add more rejuvelac (recipe below). If you desire a sweeter mixture, add carrots and or sweet potatoes. Keep adding greens until there is about a one and a half inch space left at the top of the blender. For taste, add an apple or papaya. The last ingredient to add is an avocado to thicken the soup. Specific amounts of each ingredient are not that important when creating this soup.

It is important to use your imagination and your personal taste palate. Energy soup is best consumed about five times a day in small amounts.

Energy soup is a great way to detoxify and help an overburdened system recover. It is also a great way to get the required intake of vegetables and greens. Many people have reported great success with weight loss by using the soup as a complete meal.

Rejuvelac

Dr. Ann Wigmore states in The Blending Book that, “Rejuvelac is a slightly fermented wheat berry drink that is one of the most important items in the living foods lifestyle.” Rejuvelac helps with digestion because it contains all the nutritional nourishment of wheat and it contains a host of friendly bacteria. Because it supplies so many nutritional elements such as vitamins B, C and E, it can be classified as a food by itself. 

To make, you will need a large glass jar and two cups of soft wheat berries to soak in purified water for at least 8 to 24 hours. Drain and rinse the berries once and allow to sprout for two days. When white sprout tails begin to show, add six cups of purified water. Cover the jar with cheesecloth and place in a warm area where it can be exposed to at least a 70 degree temperature for two days. The rejuvelac is now ready for consumption. Pour the fermented drink into a clean glass picture and refrigerate. You can use the mixture as a drink by itself or in different recipes. Rejuvelac will store in the refrigerator for at least a week. It is best to consume two glasses of rejuvelac daily for optimal benefit.

The leftover seeds can be used one more time for another batch of rejuvelac. Instead of six cups of purified water, use four cups and follow the remaining steps above. After the second batch is completed, the seeds can be composted or thrown to the birds for consumption.

I can attest that these 3 foods are a heaven sent.  I've made a plenty in my day to help people and it really works.  The foods are an acquired taste, but once you get used to them, it's like anything else.
Try these recipes and watch the miracles unfold.

What Is The Raw Food Lifestyle All About?

Ann Wigmore (who I consider the Mother of the raw food diet) believed that there are two main causes of disease and disorder: toxemia and deficiency. Toxemia is blood poisoning caused by bacterial substances in the blood. These poisons or toxins are caused by eating processed, unnatural and pesticide tainted foods which have permeated our culture. Toxins in the blood are also caused by unhealthy stress in the body. Deficiency means insufficiency in the body or undernourishment in the body due to the lack of nutrients in indigestible cooked foods. Ann Wigmore developed the Living Foods Lifestyle to combat these two perils that have taken over our lives.

The raw food lifestyle also known as the living foods lifestyle... is an alternative approach to life and health. The living foods lifestyle consists of foods such as nuts, seeds, grains, sprouts, fruits, vegetables and sea vegetables that have not been heated above 118 degrees. Raw and living foods both contain enzymes, but the enzyme count is much higher in living foods due to the sprouting process (soaking in water). For people who are chronically ill, consuming only sprouted foods are the better rout due to the higher enzyme count.  Sprouting removes the enzyme inhibitors from foods for easier digestion.  I can tell when nuts have not been soaked.  They have a heavier feel to my body and digestion is not as smooth.

Thousands of people have found enormous benefit and healing by incorporating living foods into their lives. People adopt this lifestyle to promote weight loss, to increase mental clarity, and to slow the aging process. Living foods also help to increase energy and well being, improve chronic and degenerative diseases, and detoxify the body from internal and external toxins.  One of the main benefits I received was clearer skin.  I often get compliments on my natural glow and it stems from the raw food diet.

The easiest way to lose weight on any diet program is to decrease the amount of calories consumed. Raw vegetables and greens have the fewest calories of any food, with fruits following a close second. These foods have high water content and a load of nutrients which make them easier to digest and dispel. When eating foods this high in nutrients, your hunger decreases and your cravings subside.

Raw foods can aid in slowing the aging process too. Aging is the phenomenon that everyone will eventually have to deal with. Raw foods are filled with enormous amounts of nutrients, vitamins, minerals and fiber. A body that is filled with an abundance of nutrients will age slowly. The nutrients from the foods strengthen the bones, boost the immune system and promote healthy skin. The foods are low in toxins and are free from carcinogens, so the body does not have to work as hard to stay healthy. Fibers in raw foods keep the digestive system healthy and viable. Aging is always characterized by the loss of energy in the body. One of the adverse effects of aging is the slowdown of the digestive process resulting in a host of illnesses. 

Finally, the living foods lifestyle can help detoxify the body internally and externally.   When toxins are tucked inside your cells, they interfere with the cellular chemistry and decrease the body’s energy production. When toxins exit the cells, they attack the nerves which causes irritation. When toxins are expelled, symptoms range from cravings, fatigue, irritability, and physical pains. The body usually craves the most toxic foods until the proper nutrients have been incorporated into the system. When the body is fighting toxins, all energy goes into healing which causes exhaustion and irritation. Physical symptoms include aches and pains, nausea, headaches, runny nose, skin breakouts, sleep problems and gastrointestinal disturbances. I have experienced all of the above at one time or another, but after starting this diet, I really don't have any health issues now.  Thank God!!!