The raw vegan diet has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. The gist of the diet is that all food is uncooked, and any cooking is done at temperatures below 118 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that you can eat many foods raw or unheated, eliminating the need for harmful cooking oils and making it easier to get nutrients from food without risking nutrient loss. It’s impossible to go wrong with these top twelve healthiest uncooked vegan foods:
Avocado
Avocados are a tasty, versatile fruit that you can eat in many different ways. One tablespoon of an avocado provides about two grams of fiber and 20 percent DV iron. Avocados can also help lower bad cholesterol levels and improve heart health. You can enjoy them as a spread or dip, on toast with veggies, in sandwiches and wraps, chopped up for salad dressings or salsa dips, or blended into smoothies.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are a low-calorie, high water content food rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and silica. Silica is beneficial for healthy hair, skin, nails, and bones. You can eat cucumbers sliced or chopped up in salads or as part of a vegetable platter. Many people also enjoy juiced cucumber as a refreshing drink on hot days.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that offers many health benefits. It contains antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamins A and C, calcium, fiber, protein, and more! Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you can eat and is great raw or cooked. Some of its most powerful components are glucosinolates which possess anti-cancer properties. Try dipping raw broccoli in some hummus and a yummy afternoon snack.
Almonds
Almonds are a nutritious nut high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. They also contain vitamins E, B12, and calcium. Almonds help regulate blood sugar levels and support cardiovascular health. They’re also helpful for weight loss and can be used to make almond milk which is rich in vitamin E. They are a great snack on their own or added to oatmeal.
Spinach
This leafy green is another nutritional powerhouse. It contains high levels of vitamins A and C, iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese, folate, and zinc. Spinach also helps protect cells from damage and is beneficial for eye health. You’ll want to add this one into your diet in a big way! You can enjoy it raw in salads. Spinach is also great cooked and used for making healthy green smoothies.
