The Principles and Practices of a Living Food Diet Vegetarian.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in alternative diets that promote optimal health and well-being. One such diet that has gained popularity is the living food diet vegetarian. This dietary approach emphasises the consumption of unprocessed, plant-based foods that are alive with nutrients, enzymes, and vital energy. It is based on the belief that consuming raw, living foods can support overall health and vitality. In this article, we will explore the principles and practices of a living food diet vegetarian.

Principles of a Living Food Diet Vegetarian:

1. Raw and Living Foods: The cornerstone of a living food diet vegetarian is the consumption of raw and living foods. This includes fresh fruits, vegetables, sprouts, nuts, seeds, and seaweeds. These foods are considered to be rich in enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that can be diminished or destroyed by cooking.
2. Plant-Based Nutrition: A living food diet vegetarian is centred around plant-based nutrition. It encourages the consumption of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and plant-based sources of protein such as legumes, sprouts, and nuts. Plant-based foods are naturally rich in fibre, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds that promote health and well-being.
3. Organic and Locally Sourced Foods: Whenever possible, followers of a living food diet vegetarian opt for organic and locally sourced foods. Organic foods are free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), while locally sourced foods are fresher and support the local economy.
4. Food Combining: Proper food combining is an essential principle of a living food diet vegetarian. It involves consuming compatible foods together to optimise digestion and nutrient absorption. For example, fruits are typically eaten separately from other foods, as they are digested more quickly.

Practices of a Living Food Diet Vegetarian:

1. Raw Food Preparation: Living food diet vegetarians focus on raw food preparation techniques that preserve the vital nutrients and enzymes in their food. These techniques include blending, juicing, sprouting, and dehydrating. Blending and juicing create smoothies and juices that are easy to digest and allow for maximum nutrient absorption.
2. Sprouting and Fermenting: Sprouting and fermenting are common practices in a living food diet vegetarian. Sprouts are nutrient-dense and contain higher levels of enzymes compared to their non-sprouted counterparts. Fermented foods, such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha, provide beneficial probiotics that support gut health.
3. Mindful Eating: Practicing mindfulness during meals is encouraged in a living food diet vegetarian. Taking the time to appreciate the flavors, textures, and colors of the food can enhance the overall dining experience. Mindful eating also involves chewing food thoroughly to aid digestion.
4. Balancing Macronutrients: Although a living food diet vegetarian is predominantly plant-based, it is important to ensure a balanced intake of macronutrients. This includes consuming an adequate amount of plant-based proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to meet the body’s nutritional needs.
5. Supplementation and B12: A living food diet vegetarian may require supplementation, especially for vitamin B12, which is primarily found in animal-based foods. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian can help identify any potential nutrient deficiencies and provide guidance on appropriate supplementation.

Benefits and Considerations:

Proponents of a living food diet vegetarian believe that this dietary approach can offer numerous health benefits, including increased energy levels, improved digestion, weight management, and enhanced mental clarity. The emphasis on whole, unprocessed foods and the avoidance of animal products and highly processed foods may contribute to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

However, it is important to approach any dietary change with careful consideration. While a living food diet vegetarian offers many potential benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some individuals may find it challenging to meet their nutritional needs solely from raw and living foods. It is crucial to listen to your body, monitor your nutrient intake, and make adjustments as needed.

A living food diet vegetarian is a dietary approach that prioritises raw and living plant-based foods. By focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and mindful eating, individuals can optimise their nutrition and potentially reap numerous health benefits. As with any dietary change, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to ensure that your nutritional needs are adequately met.