Step 2: The Benefits of Raw Vegan Foods

The raw vegan diet has been gaining popularity over the years, and for good reason! It’s packed with benefits that make it a fantastic choice for many people.

Not only does it support weight loss and provide a bounty of vitamins and minerals from fresh, whole foods, but it’s also often more affordable than buying packaged or prepared foods. 

Plus, let’s not forget the incredible raw vegan desserts that make this lifestyle both nourishing and indulgent!

For me, the decision to go raw vegan started with a focus on health and weight loss. But I’ve also met many others who embrace this diet out of a deep love for animals, making the switch to avoid meat, cheese, and dairy. I think that’s a beautiful reason to adopt a vegan lifestyle.

As someone who’s been vegan for more than 15 years, I have to admit — while my main motivation has always been health, it’s a wonderful bonus that I also get to live in alignment with my love for animals!

The Benefits of Raw Vegan Foods

Health Disclaimer

Before we dive into all the exciting benefits of raw vegan foods, I just want to share a quick disclaimer with you.

This website doesn’t offer medical advice — everything shared here is for informational purposes only! Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

I’m not a doctor or health care professional, so please be sure to check in with your medical provider if you have any health-related questions. The info I’m sharing here is based on my personal experiences and the research I’ve done over the years with raw vegan foods and this lifestyle.

Your health is so important, so I always recommend doing your own research and making choices that work best for you. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned along the way, but remember, everyone’s body is different, and it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before making any big changes to your diet.

And don’t forget to take a look at my disclaimer page for more details!

Now, let’s dive into all the amazing things you can look forward to on a raw vegan diet!


1. Hydration Benefits

In the last post, we talked a lot about hydration and how important it is when transitioning to a raw vegan diet. This is one of the major benefits of eating this way — fruits and vegetables are naturally high in water content, which makes staying hydrated much easier and more enjoyable!

Now, when I say “the healthy way,” I mean focusing on whole, fresh, and raw foods — stuff like juicy fruits and crunchy veggies.

If your raw vegan diet mainly consists of processed raw snacks, restaurant meals, or high-fat, non-raw ingredients (even dehydrated foods), that can actually have the opposite effect and leave you feeling dehydrated.

Many people on other types of diets, especially the Standard American Diet (SAD), are already chronically dehydrated. In fact, studies show that around 75% of Americans may not be drinking enough water, and they often don’t realize it. They might confuse thirst with hunger or simply forget to drink throughout the day. 

Since the SAD is typically loaded with processed foods, caffeine, and sugary drinks, it doesn’t really help support hydration.

Chronic dehydration can lead to everything from fatigue and headaches to digestive issues and dry skin. That’s why it’s so important to stay hydrated! 

When you eat a high-raw diet, you’re naturally getting more water from foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges, which is a great way to keep your body fueled and hydrated.

If you’ve been eating raw vegan for a while and then switch to cooked or dried foods, you might notice an interesting effect — you’ll feel a bit more parched or have that “cotton mouth” feeling. It’s almost like your body is saying, “Hey, where’s the water?!” 

This is a reminder of how hydrating raw foods can be and how dehydrating some cooked or processed foods can feel in comparison.

So, always remember to drink plenty of water and enjoy those hydrating raw foods — they’re a big part of what makes a raw vegan diet so refreshing and nourishing!


2. Food Benefits

Let’s dive into the wonderful benefits of eating raw vegan foods. 

Always Organic!

When it comes to raw vegan foods, I can’t stress this enough — always go organic! It’s one of the best choices you can make for your health. 

Dr. Joel Fuhrman, a well-known nutrition expert, even says that organic foods are 300 times more nutritious than non-organic. 

Sounds crazy, right? But it’s true!

The reason behind this is simple, organic foods are grown without the use of harmful pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or other chemicals that can interfere with the nutritional value of the produce. 

When you choose organic, you’re getting food that’s been nurtured in healthier soil, and that means more nutrient density for you. Plus, organic farming practices are often more sustainable, which is a win for the environment, too!

When you’re on a raw vegan diet, your body is craving real, whole nutrition. Organic produce is packed with those powerful phytonutrients, antioxidants, and other micronutrients that are crucial for overall health.

Eating organic ensures you’re getting the most out of every bite, so your body can thrive on the cleanest, most nourishing food possible.

So, next time you’re at the store, reach for those organic fruits and veggies — they’re truly worth it, both for your health and the planet!

Phytonutrients

So, what exactly are phytonutrients? Great question!

Phytonutrients are naturally occurring compounds found in plants that help protect them from environmental stresses like disease, UV rays, and pests. But here’s the exciting part — they’re also incredibly beneficial for your health!

Dr. Joel Fuhrman, really emphasizes how important phytonutrients are for our bodies. He calls them “superheroes” of the plant world, and for good reason! 

These tiny, often microscopic, compounds pack a big punch when it comes to boosting your immune system, reducing inflammation, and even protecting against chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

What’s so cool about phytonutrients is that they’re found in a variety of raw vegan foods — fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and even herbs. 

Different phytonutrients have different roles, but together they support a whole range of body functions. For example, flavonoids (found in berries, apples, and citrus) are powerful antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress, while carotenoids (like beta-carotene in carrots) support eye health and immune function.

The best part? 

Phytonutrients are most abundant when the food is in its whole, raw form, which is why a raw vegan diet is such a great way to flood your body with these nutrient-packed compounds. 

So, when you’re munching on those fresh fruits and veggies, you’re not just filling up on calories — you’re nourishing your body with these plant-powered nutrients that can make a real difference in how you feel and how you age.

Remember, these little compounds might be microscopic, but they have a big job to do. They’re like the secret army inside your body, supporting your health and helping you feel your absolute best!

Benefits of Nutrients

Raw vegan foods are so nutrient-dense that they offer incredible benefits compared to what the body absorbs from other types of diets. 

Be cautious when you come across ads promoting powdered beets or other processed fruit and veggie powders. You’re missing out on the full spectrum of benefits when you go for something processed — just eat the food in its whole, natural form! It’s where all the magic happens.

When people switch to a health-conscious raw vegan diet, the results often come fast: weight loss, glowing skin, increased strength and energy, and a more youthful appearance.

It’s almost like they’re reversing the aging process and starting to feel younger — not just physically, but also with a renewed sense of vitality!

Know Your Food Source

Honestly, these days it’s not easy getting quality produce. You can’t just walk into a normal grocery store and expect to get good, fresh and organic produce, you really need to find the health markets that source local and organic foods. 

When it comes to packaged fruit and veggie powders, I’m not even sure you’re always getting what the label says. You could be unknowingly getting hybridized or GMO foods, and that’s definitely not what we want on a raw vegan diet.

These days, it’s more important than ever to really know where your food is coming from and do some digging to ensure it’s the real deal.

One of the best things you can do is research the farms that your food is sourced from. Better yet, why not go a step further and shop local? 

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs are a fantastic option because you can buy fresh, organic produce directly from the farmer.

This way, you’re supporting local businesses and getting food that’s likely to be grown with minimal to no chemicals, pesticides, or herbicides.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even find urban farmers in your area that sell fresh produce. For example, I was a huge fan of The Urban Homestead in Pasadena, California, when I first went raw vegan. They’re all about growing food sustainably, and it really gave me a deeper connection to where my food comes from.

The bottom line is, take the time to get to know your farmers and understand the practices behind the food you’re eating. When you align with sources you trust and feel good about, it makes your raw vegan journey even more rewarding! 

Benefits Between Cooked vs Raw Foods

Do you need to eat raw vegan to be healthy?

Absolutely not!

In my opinion, the raw vegan diet isn’t necessarily the “perfect” diet for everyone — but I think it’s all about what works best for you personally. Everyone’s body is unique, and finding the foods that nourish and energize you is a journey.

What works for one person might not work for someone else, so it’s all about tuning into your own body and listening to what it needs.

As for me, I’ve been 100% raw vegan in the past, but now I’m around 80%-90% raw vegan, and that balance feels great for me. I’m still reaping the benefits of fresh, whole foods while allowing myself a little flexibility.

Now, let’s explore something really interesting — the unique benefits of eating foods cooked versus raw vegan! It’s all about getting the most out of each food, depending on how you prepare it.

Cooked vs Raw Foods: List

Here’s a list of some foods that offer different benefits depending on whether they’re cooked or eaten raw. Both raw and cooked foods have their unique perks, and some are better in one form versus the other!

1. Tomatoes

  • Raw: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants like flavonoids, which support immune health. Eating tomatoes raw also offers a fresh, hydrating boost.
  • Cooked: Cooking tomatoes increases the levels of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for supporting heart health and reducing inflammation. Heat breaks down the cell walls, making it easier for your body to absorb.

2. Spinach

  • Raw: When eaten raw, spinach retains its high vitamin C content and provides a good dose of folate.
  • Cooked: Cooking spinach actually increases the levels of iron and calcium by breaking down oxalates (compounds that inhibit mineral absorption). You also get more beta-carotene when it’s cooked!

3. Carrots

  • Raw: Raw carrots are a great source of vitamin C and provide a satisfying crunchy texture. They also maintain a good amount of their fiber when raw.
  • Cooked: Cooking carrots boosts the levels of beta-carotene, which is better absorbed by the body when heated. Cooked carrots are also easier on digestion for some people.

4. Mushrooms

  • Raw: Raw mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins (like riboflavin and niacin) and offer a mild flavor.
  • Cooked: Cooking mushrooms enhances the bioavailability of antioxidants and makes them easier to digest. It also helps neutralize any naturally occurring toxins (like agaritine in certain mushrooms).

5. Broccoli

  • Raw: Raw broccoli retains its high levels of vitamin C, sulforaphane (a powerful antioxidant), and fiber.
  • Cooked: Lightly cooking broccoli, especially steaming, can increase the bioavailability of certain nutrients like lutein (good for eye health). Overcooking, however, can reduce its vitamin C content.

6. Bell Peppers

  • Raw: Raw bell peppers are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune health and skin.
  • Cooked: Cooking bell peppers can slightly reduce the vitamin C content, but it enhances the availability of carotenoids, which are good for eye health.

7. Asparagus

  • Raw: Raw asparagus offers a refreshing crunch and is a good source of fiber and folate.
  • Cooked: Cooking asparagus increases its levels of antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene. It also breaks down the fiber, making it easier to digest.

8. Kale

  • Raw: Raw kale is high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s also more hydrating in its raw form.
  • Cooked: Cooking kale reduces its oxalates, which makes calcium and iron more bioavailable. It also helps break down its tough fibers, making it easier on the digestive system.

9. Sweet Potatoes

  • Raw: Raw sweet potatoes contain high levels of vitamin C and fiber, but they can be hard to digest.
  • Cooked: Cooking sweet potatoes makes them much easier to digest and increases the bioavailability of beta-carotene and vitamin A. Roasting or steaming sweet potatoes can also enhance their natural sweetness.

10. Onions

  • Raw: Raw onions are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants like quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Cooked: Cooking onions brings out their natural sweetness and can help make the sulfur compounds easier to tolerate. It also increases their prebiotic effects, which are great for gut health.

11. Garlic

  • Raw: Raw garlic is a powerhouse of allicin, a sulfur compound that has been linked to cardiovascular benefits and immune support.
  • Cooked: When cooked, garlic loses some of its allicin but becomes easier on the digestive system. It can also offer some antioxidant benefits when sautéed or roasted.

12. Cucumbers

  • Raw: Raw cucumbers are incredibly hydrating and contain a good amount of vitamin K and silica, which supports skin and joint health.
  • Cooked: Cooking cucumbers can break down their fiber, making them easier to digest, though you lose much of their hydration benefits when they’re cooked.

13. Zucchini

  • Raw: Raw zucchini has a mild, refreshing flavor and provides vitamin C and antioxidants.
  • Cooked: Cooking zucchini can help unlock more beta-carotene and improve its antioxidant content. It’s also a great addition to soups and stir-fries, where it absorbs flavors.

14. Avocados

  • Raw: Avocados are best raw, packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E, which support heart health and skin.
  • Cooked: Heating avocados isn’t recommended, as it can damage the healthy fats they contain. They’re best enjoyed in their natural, raw state!

Cooked Foods: Pros

On the other hand, some greens and vegetables actually offer different benefits when cooked. 

Cooking can break down the tough fibers and cell walls of certain plants, making it easier for your body to absorb more of their nutrients. For example, cooking spinach increases the availability of iron and calcium, while lightly steaming broccoli helps release more antioxidants like lutein.

So, sometimes cooking helps unlock even more nutritional goodness!

Cooked Foods: Cons

One downside of eating cooked foods is that they can be dehydrating.

When I transitioned back to eating cooked foods after being raw vegan for two and a half years, I noticed something pretty interesting — after eating cooked meals, I would often feel dehydrated, like I had “cotton mouth.” 

It was a bit of a wake-up call for me! I realized that cooked foods don’t offer the same hydrating benefits as raw foods, and I found myself needing to drink a lot more water to rehydrate. 

In my experience, it seems like you can dehydrate yourself with cooked foods just as quickly as you can hydrate with fresh, raw vegan meals! 

So, when you’re eating cooked meals, it’s extra important to stay mindful of your water intake.


3. Weight Loss Benefits

A raw vegan diet can be a powerful tool for weight loss due to its focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods that are naturally low in calories but high in fiber. By filling up on fresh fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens, you’re not only nourishing your body but also promoting a feeling of fullness that helps curb overeating. 

Plus, the abundance of enzymes and antioxidants in raw foods can boost metabolism and support healthy digestion, making it easier for your body to shed excess weight.

This was one of the biggest reasons why I started on this diet and journey, the weight loss benefits. 

Being overweight increases likelihood of diabetes, and other diseases for that matter. Diabetes runs in my family so this was always back in my mind to be careful with.

For me learning and knowing that losing weight may reduce the risk of diabetes made me think that raw vegan sounded very appealing to at the time. 

One of the biggest reasons I started on this raw vegan journey was because of the potential for weight loss and how it could help with healing, especially for conditions like diabetes.

The idea that eating fresh, whole foods could not only help with weight loss but also support my body in managing blood sugar levels was a huge motivator. It felt like a step in the right direction toward better health and healing.

Even a vegan diet alone can cut the risk of diabetes — so imagine the added benefits of switching to a raw vegan lifestyle! 

The Standard American Diet, with all its processed foods and trans fats found in baked goods and fried snacks, just doesn’t support our health in the same way. 

Knowing what I know now about raw vegan foods, it’s clear that this way of eating offers so much more for the body.

I’m so grateful I made the shift before my health took a turn for the worse. For me, transitioning to a raw vegan diet has truly been life-changing.

It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I really hope my story and the information I share can inspire and help others on their own health journeys!

Detoxification: Detoxing While on a Raw Vegan Diet

When you transition to a raw vegan diet, one of the most powerful processes your body undergoes is detoxification.

Raw vegan foods are naturally high in water content, fiber, and antioxidants, all of which help flush out toxins, cleanse the digestive system, and support your body’s natural detox pathways.

Since raw foods are free from the preservatives, chemicals, and additives found in processed foods, your body can finally focus on eliminating built-up waste and harmful substances.

How it Works:

Raw foods, especially fruits and vegetables, are rich in enzymes that assist in breaking down food and facilitating digestion. These enzymes also help detoxify the liver, kidneys, and other organs.

The high water content in raw foods aids in hydration, which is essential for flushing toxins through the kidneys and out of the body.

Fiber from raw fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens helps to promote regular bowel movements, preventing constipation and further aiding detoxification.

Elevating the Detox Process:

If you want to take your detox to the next level, there are a few ways to amplify the benefits:

1. Increase Hydration: Raw foods are naturally hydrating, but drinking plenty of water, herbal teas, or infusing your water with lemon or cucumber can help your body flush out toxins more effectively.

2. Incorporate Green Juices or Smoothies: Adding green juices or smoothies to your raw vegan diet can accelerate detoxification. These nutrient-dense beverages provide a concentrated dose of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, giving your liver, kidneys, and digestive system an extra boost.

3. Do a Raw Cleanse: Some people opt for short periods of raw vegan cleanses, which may involve consuming only raw fruits, vegetables, and juices for a set period of time. This gives your body a concentrated effort to clear out toxins and reset your system.

4. Support with Gentle Movement: Light exercise like yoga, walking, or stretching can help stimulate circulation, sweat out toxins, and support the detox process. Just be sure to listen to your body — detoxing can be intense, and it’s important to go at your own pace.

Benefits of Detoxing on a Raw Vegan Diet:

  • Clearer Skin: One of the first things many people notice after a few days on a raw vegan diet is improved skin clarity. I know I did. The body’s ability to remove toxins can lead to fewer breakouts, a more radiant complexion, and healthier skin overall.
  • Increased Energy: As your body sheds built-up waste and unnecessary toxins, you may feel a surge in energy levels. Raw foods provide a natural, clean source of fuel that can leave you feeling vibrant and energized.
  • Improved Digestion: The fiber-rich nature of raw vegan foods helps to regulate digestion, reduce bloating, and promote a healthier gut. This can also support a healthy microbiome, which plays a key role in overall well-being.
  • Mental Clarity: As your body detoxifies, many people experience mental clarity and a sense of calm. Raw vegan foods nourish the brain and provide steady energy without the crashes that often come with processed foods.
  • Weight Loss: Detoxing naturally supports weight loss as your body releases excess fat and waste. Since raw vegan foods are lower in calories but higher in nutrients, you’re more likely to shed unwanted weight without feeling deprived.
  • Reduced Inflammation: The antioxidants and phytonutrients in raw vegan foods help reduce inflammation in the body, which can lead to a decrease in chronic pain, better joint health, and improved immune function.

Possible Detox Symptoms:

As your body goes through the detox process, you might experience some temporary symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or mild digestive discomfort. This is completely normal as your body adjusts to this new way of eating and begins eliminating toxins.

Just be sure to stay hydrated and take it easy if you feel extra tired — your body is doing a lot of work behind the scenes!

The raw vegan diet is a powerful tool for detoxing, allowing your body to reset, refresh, and heal from within.

By nourishing yourself with whole, fresh, and clean foods, you’re giving your body the nutrients it needs to cleanse itself naturally.

With a little extra care, like staying hydrated and supporting detox with movement, you can elevate this process and experience the amazing benefits of clearer skin, more energy, better digestion, and overall vitality.

It’s a holistic approach to health that can help you feel your absolute best!

Detoxification Disclaimer: Consult Your Doctor

When it comes to detoxing on a raw vegan diet, it’s important to approach it with care and awareness. While the benefits of detoxifying through fresh, whole foods can be powerful, the process can also be intense, especially for those new to this way of eating or those with pre-existing health conditions. 

Detoxing is a personal journey, and the effects can vary from person to person.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

1. Consult with Your Doctor: Before starting any kind of detox or making significant dietary changes, including transitioning to a raw vegan diet, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider. This is particularly important if you have existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, digestive issues, or any other chronic illnesses. Your doctor can provide guidance on how to approach the diet safely and whether any adjustments need to be made to suit your individual health needs.

2. Detox Symptoms: As your body adjusts to the raw vegan diet, you might experience symptoms like headaches, fatigue, digestive discomfort, or even flu-like symptoms. These are typically temporary and are part of your body’s natural detox process. However, if symptoms persist or become overwhelming, it’s important to check in with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues or imbalances.

3. Nutritional Needs: Raw vegan diets are rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and plant-based foods, but they can sometimes be lacking in certain nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, or omega-3 fatty acids. It’s important to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs, especially during a detox period, to avoid deficiencies. Your doctor can help guide you on the best way to supplement if necessary.

4. Gradual Transition: Detoxing isn’t always about going “cold turkey.” Believe me, I know how intense it can be as I’ve gone about it “cold turkey.” Gradually transitioning to a raw vegan diet allows your body time to adjust without overwhelming your system. If you have any health conditions or are unsure about how to proceed, a slower, more gradual approach might be the best option.

5. Be Mindful of Your Body: Every person’s body is different, and not everyone will experience detoxing the same way. It’s important to listen to your body and respect its needs. If you feel unwell or experience more severe symptoms than expected, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor.

Detoxing on a raw vegan diet can be a wonderful way to support your body’s natural cleansing process, but it’s not without its challenges.

Always consult with your doctor before making major dietary changes to ensure you’re doing so safely and effectively.

Taking a mindful approach to detox, coupled with professional guidance, can help you achieve the best possible results while prioritizing your health and well-being.


4. Health Benefits

I was raw vegan for several years and have been vegan for over 15 years now, and here’s something I find pretty wild — I haven’t been to a doctor since before I switched to a vegan lifestyle! 

Pretty amazing, right? 

I can’t speak for everyone, but I’m honestly convinced that eating a diet rich in raw foods, when done in a health-conscious way, has huge benefits for overall wellness — and it sure helps keep those doctor visits to a minimum.

I’ve seen something similar with my mom, who’s been following a vegan diet for over 25 years. She chose this path to beat diabetes, which runs in our family, and since then, she’s been able to avoid the medical procedures typically associated with managing the condition. It’s been such a positive shift for her health.

In the end, from what I’ve seen, it really feels like a health-conscious vegan diet — especially one that includes lots of raw foods — can help keep the doctor away!

Heart Health

If you’re looking for a heart-healthy diet, the raw vegan diet is definitely worth exploring! When done the right way — health-conscious and keeping it low in fat — it can be a fantastic choice. 

This way of eating is naturally packed with heart-loving foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, all of which are great for your cardiovascular health

These plant-based foods are packed with nutrients that support cardiovascular health in several key ways:

1. High in Antioxidants: Raw fruits and vegetables, especially colorful ones like berries, tomatoes, and leafy greens, are loaded with antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and flavonoids. These antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress in the body, which can damage blood vessels and contribute to heart disease.

2. Rich in Fiber: Raw vegan foods are naturally high in fiber, which is important for heart health. Fiber helps lower cholesterol levels by binding to excess cholesterol and helping to remove it from the body. High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also help regulate blood sugar and improve blood circulation.

3. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation is linked to heart disease, and many raw plant foods, like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fruits, are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. These foods contain phytonutrients and omega-3 fatty acids (from sources like flaxseeds and chia seeds) that can reduce inflammation in the body, ultimately benefiting heart health.

4. Healthy Fats: While a raw vegan diet is free from animal fats, it’s rich in healthy fats from plant-based sources like avocados, nuts, and seeds. These fats — particularly omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseeds and walnuts — are known to help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL), which is beneficial for heart health.

5. Blood Pressure Regulation: The potassium content in many raw vegan foods, such as bananas, leafy greens, and avocados, helps regulate blood pressure by balancing the effects of sodium in the body. Lower blood pressure is a key factor in reducing the risk of heart disease.

6. Weight Management: A raw vegan diet is naturally low in calories and high in nutrients, which can help with weight management. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for heart health, as excess weight can increase the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, all of which are risk factors for heart disease.

7. Better Circulation: The high levels of water content in raw vegan foods, especially fruits and vegetables, keep the body hydrated, which in turn supports healthy blood flow and circulation — critical components of heart health.

A well-balanced raw vegan diet, rich in whole, plant-based foods, can absolutely support heart health by providing essential nutrients, reducing inflammation, regulating cholesterol and blood pressure, and promoting overall cardiovascular wellness. 

Of course, like with any diet, it’s important to ensure you’re eating a variety of foods to meet all your nutritional needs, and it’s always wise to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s right for you.

But with all those fresh, vibrant fruits and veggies, you’re giving your heart some serious love!

Heart Health: Apple Watch for Tracker

A great way to keep track of your health is by using something like an Apple Watch or any fitness tracker that works for you. I personally love using mine to monitor my heart rate, track workouts, and even keep an eye on my daily activity levels. 

It’s amazing how much more aware you become of your health when you have all those numbers right at your fingertips!

One of the cool things I’ve noticed, especially with the improved cardiovascular health from a raw vegan diet, is that I’ve been able to push myself a little further when it comes to exercise.

With better circulation, more energy, and lower inflammation, I feel more motivated and capable to get moving, whether it’s a walk, bike ride, or even a light skateboarding session. 

Tracking these things helps me stay on top of my progress and stay motivated to keep moving toward even better health. Plus, it’s a great reminder to listen to your body and adjust your routine when needed!

Minimal Illness

As I mentioned earlier, I haven’t been to a doctor in over 15 years, and honestly, it’s something I’m pretty proud of! 

I’ve rarely gotten sick, and even during the whole COVID period, I stayed healthy. Of course, I’m not saying it’s all about luck — I truly believe that following a raw vegan diet, staying mindful of keeping it low-fat, and prioritizing sunshine and movement have all played a huge role in keeping my body strong and resilient.

The beauty of a raw vegan diet is how nutrient-dense it is. When you fuel your body with fresh, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, and seeds, you’re giving it exactly what it needs to thrive. 

These foods are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that support your immune system and help keep your body in balance.

On top of that, the high water content in raw foods keeps you hydrated and supports your body’s natural detoxification processes, which is another important factor in staying healthy and warding off illness.

I’ve also made a point to soak up the sun regularly — which, as a bonus, gives me much-needed vitamin D! — and get regular exercise, even if it’s just a daily walk or some gentle yoga. 

The combination of these practices with a raw vegan diet seems to create a perfect storm for avoiding illness. Exercise boosts your immune system, and the raw, whole foods you eat provide the building blocks for your body to repair and protect itself.

Another big perk of the raw vegan lifestyle? 

I’ve been able to steer clear of many common chronic diseases that often run in families. Whether it’s heart disease, diabetes, or even certain types of cancer, a raw vegan diet, rich in plant-based nutrients, can help lower the risk of these conditions.

While I can’t say that the diet is a magic cure-all, I do believe it’s been an essential part of helping me stay healthy over the years.

In the end, I think it’s all about creating a lifestyle that nourishes your body in the most natural, balanced way possible. Eating raw vegan foods, moving your body, and spending time outdoors has definitely worked wonders for me, and I truly believe it can help others too. 

Here’s to staying healthy, strong, and thriving without relying on constant doctor visits!


5. Mind, Body, and Spirt Benefits

Alright, this part might sound a little out there, but hear me out!

During my time on a raw vegan diet, I noticed something pretty amazing — my spirit felt more alive and connected. It’s like my whole vibe became more spiritually uplifted.

I’m not saying I turned into a monk or anything, but there was definitely a deeper sense of peace and energy that came with nourishing my body in this way.

It’s hard to explain, but the more I embraced raw vegan foods, the more I felt in tune with my inner self and the world around me.

Mind Manifestation

When you adopt a clean and pure, health-conscious lifestyle — especially one centered around a raw vegan diet — you might begin to notice not just physical improvements but also a profound shift in your mental and spiritual well-being.

A diet rich in fresh, whole, plant-based foods offers so many benefits, but one of the subtler yet powerful changes it can inspire is a heightened sense of spiritual awareness and deeper mind manifestation.

Physical Awareness

When you fuel your body with nutrient-dense raw foods, you’re not only giving it the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it craves, but you’re also supporting your brain and nervous system.

These nutrients help improve cognitive function, enhance clarity, and elevate your mood. Over time, this clarity expands beyond just mental focus — it begins to affect your spiritual awareness as well. 

Many people report feeling more connected to themselves, the world around them, and even a higher sense of purpose. It’s as if the fog lifts, and you can see the world in sharper, more vibrant detail.

As your body becomes cleaner and more attuned to the benefits of whole, unprocessed foods, you might find that your energy shifts. You feel lighter, more present, and more in tune with your emotions. 

This allows you to tap into a deeper level of self-awareness, which is essential for cultivating positive thoughts and manifesting your goals.

Spiritual Awareness 

The clearer your mind and spirit become, the more you align with your true intentions. You’ll begin to notice that what you think, feel, and believe has a direct impact on your reality, and with a heightened sense of self-awareness, you can manifest your desires with greater ease.

Eating clean, raw, and vibrant foods also promotes a deeper connection to the earth, which can help you feel grounded and centered.

There’s something truly powerful about eating foods that are in their purest form — straight from the earth, unprocessed, and full of life. 

This practice fosters a sense of gratitude and mindfulness, reminding you of the natural abundance that surrounds you.

The more you nurture your body with these wholesome foods, the more you begin to nurture your spirit, leading to a positive feedback loop that enhances both your physical health and your mental clarity.

As your health improves from the inside out, your ability to manifest a life you desire becomes more accessible.

With your body feeling vibrant, your mind sharp, and your spirit at peace, you’ll find it easier to focus on your goals, make mindful decisions, and move forward with confidence. 

A raw vegan diet isn’t just about what you eat — it’s about creating harmony between your body, mind, and spirit. And as you continue on this path, you might just find that your life starts to align more with the vision you’ve always dreamed of. 

This awareness comes from my own personal journey with mind, body, and spirit through raw vegan foods. When I made the switch to a raw vegan lifestyle, everything in my life began to shift.

Not only did I experience incredible health benefits, but I also noticed that my career, relationships, and overall sense of purpose started to improve.

I felt more aligned with my true self and clearer on what I wanted, especially when it came to the type of partner I wanted in my life.

As I continued on this path, I even found someone who shared my dietary values and lifestyle choices, which felt like the perfect match. It’s amazing how making positive changes in one area of life can ripple out and improve so many others! 

Conclusion

The benefits of raw vegan foods are pretty incredible, and it all starts with hydration!

Raw fruits and veggies are naturally packed with water, helping to keep your body hydrated, energized, and ready to take on the day. 

Plus, they’re full of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that nourish your body from the inside out. 

The best part? 

They’re low in calories but high in fiber, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight while still feeling full and satisfied.

But it’s not just about physical health! A raw vegan diet can bring a whole new level of clarity and energy to your life, improving not just your body but also your mind, spirit, and overall well-being. 

It’s amazing how nourishing your body with whole, plant-based foods can also create a sense of balance and alignment in every area of your life.

The more you feed your body with what it truly craves, the more you can tap into a deeper level of self-awareness, positivity, and purpose.

Whether you’re looking to lose weight, boost your health, or just feel more connected to yourself, the raw vegan lifestyle offers a beautiful way to embrace all of these benefits. 

It’s all about finding that perfect balance of nourishment, joy, and peace. And I truly hope that anyone reading this finds the health, happiness, and fulfillment they’re seeking on their own journey.

~Jacob

Next post, “Step 3: The Raw Vegan Diet & Lifestyle


Raw Vegan Advice Articles:
My Story: How I lost 80 Pounds in 4 Months!
Step 1: How to Eat Raw Vegan
Step 2: The Benefits of Raw Vegan Foods
Step 3: The Raw Vegan Diet & Lifestyle
Step 4: Raw Vegan Foods & Recipes