The raw food diet concept is very close to vegetarianism; these foods mainly consist of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and sprouted grains, and they are oil-free because they are not cooked, making them low in calories. Additionally, exposing some foods to high heat reduces their nutritional content and the number of antioxidants they contain. Below are some raw foods that are preferred to be included in a diet to achieve maximum benefits, as reported by the Times of India:
**Onion**
Onions are the most commonly used vegetable in homes, used in all types of cooking. However, eating onions raw in salads is said to be extremely beneficial for overall health because they contain a number of antioxidants that are good for the liver. They also contain a compound called lysine, which gives onions their distinctive smell. When consumed raw, the lysine in onions helps prevent heart diseases, increase bone density, and lower blood pressure as well.
**Beets**
Beets are rich in iron and are best eaten in salads or juice. Beets can also be blended with boiled chickpeas to prepare beet hummus, which can be enjoyed with potato chips. Beets help lower blood pressure and also provide energy before workouts.
**Tomatoes**
Tomatoes are often part of our daily diet and are consumed in various ways. However, they are best eaten raw, especially in salads, as they are rich in antioxidants that may decrease after cooking.
**Garlic**
Eating raw garlic may be bothersome to some people, but it offers several important health benefits. The best time to eat garlic is early in the morning by cutting a clove into small pieces, adding a few drops of honey, and chewing it for a while before swallowing with one or two sips of water. Raw garlic has medicinal benefits, and consuming it two or more times a week reduces the risk of lung cancer, as raw garlic acts as an anti-inflammatory, boosts immunity, and helps manage blood pressure.
**Nuts**
Eating raw nuts is considered healthy; adding salt or sugar to roasted nuts also increases their calorie content, such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pistachios. Roasting nuts or exposing them to heat can reduce their antioxidant and vitamin content.
**Broccoli**
Broccoli is one of the vegetables that should be included in the daily diet, as it is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, and protein. This plant also contains sulforaphane, a compound that helps combat cancer cells.
