Shortly after I made a commitment to the raw vegan diet, I began reaping a great number of physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. Once this happened, I grew so excited about my new lifestyle that I began devoting a great deal of attention to studying it. As a result of both my experiences and research, I have come to understand that there are a lot of challenges that individuals who are new to raw veganism can experience as they make the transition from their previous diet. Unfortunately, these challenges oftentimes cause individuals to revert back to their previous diet. Yet this doesn’t have to happen! By understanding the challenges that result from converting to a raw vegan diet, you can address them with confidence and gain all the benefits that result from eating a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy nuts like almonds and cashews. Here are some roadblocks to address:
1. Detox Symptoms.
Detox symptoms had a profound impact on my life when I converted to the raw vegan diet! In addition to experiencing gas and bloating, I was frequently fatigued and periodically had no appetite. If you experience these symptoms shortly after going on a raw diet, they are probably resulting from your conversion away from high fat, sugary, and/or processed foods that contain additives. The detox process results from the body cleansing itself of the unhealthy items that it has been fed over the course of your lifetime. There are a variety of things you can do to limit your experience of detox symptoms, including transitioning into the diet slowly. But if you want to go all the way immediately, be sure to get enough fluids so that you facilitate the process of ridding the body of waste. Also be sure to get plenty of exercise as this aids the digestive and elimination processes, thereby speeding up the detox period.
2. Lack Of Food Knowledge.
Oftentimes, individuals who go on the raw food diet do not initially experience profound success as a result of lack of knowledge regarding important food concepts like proper food combining and the nutritional content of the primary items that will comprise the diet (fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts). After I had been on the raw diet for a while, I realized that the problems with gas and bloating I was having were likely due to a mixture of poor food combining and not chewing enough. Once I made the corrections necessary, the gas and bloating grew less profound. I also grew aware that the experience of gas and bloating during the early stages of my transition was not unusual given that the body has to adjust to eating a higher volume of foods packed with fiber and natural sugars. If you are confused about what you’re eating or why your body is responding in a certain way, there are a plethora of online tools you can utilize to correct your problems. One such tool is a food combining chart that shows you which foods should and shouldn’t be consumed together.
3. Negative Feedback.
Unfortunately, individuals who convert to the raw vegan diet often find that their friends and family members are not supportive. This lack of support can exist for several reasons, including the belief that the diet is unhealthy, extreme, or both. If you experience negative feedback, there are a variety of positive ways that you can handle the situation. If the person is willing to engage you in meaningful dialogue, you can discuss all of the health benefits that result from the diet and/or explain the ethical implications of meat consumption in light of the violence killing the animals often involves. These types of conversations also engender mutual understanding that enables you and the individual with whom you speak to remain amicable. In some cases, however, you will find that the other person does not respect your new lifestyle. When this happens, it may be advantageous to simply end the relationship. While this can be painful, it would not be a good idea to remain friends with an individual who does not value your life change.
Conclusion
As a raw vegan, I know a bit about all the wonderful benefits that can result from adopting this diet. At the same time, I am aware that the early stages of conversion can entail several pitfalls. If you find that you are experiencing any of the challenges listed above, consider implementing some of the strategies I’ve discussed here. In so doing, you will likely find yourself leading a much more productive, positive life. Good luck! :)
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