7. Coconut
Coconut deserves an item of its own on this list for all the incredible benefits it has to offer. Drinking raw coconut water in large amounts can replenish fluids arguably better than regular water on its own, and the oil that comes from the coconut meat contains healthy fats that strengthen both the brain and heart.
Skip the coconut-flavored processed stuff like bars, candies, and pastries, which fill your body with too much sugar while offering little nutritional value. Find out how to make coconut butter from raw, shredded coconut for a tasty butter substitute.
8. Garlic
Garlic is one of those types of foods that’s almost always consumed cooked. Like onions, garlic contains the phytonutrient allicin, which can be consumed in higher amounts by eaten raw.
A study revealed that raw garlic consumed two or more times a week produced less of a risk for developing lung cancer. You can still certainly benefit from enjoying cooked garlic — you’ll just have to eat more of it if to get the same nutrition it offers in its raw state. If you’re stumped on how to use garlic without cooking it, try this creamy garlic dressing recipe for your salads and veggies.
9. Juice
There are tons of cans and cartons and jugs of juice you can buy directly from the store that promise all sorts of amazing health benefits; but when it comes straight down to it, nothing beats buying the raw ingredients and juicing them yourself. Store bought juices undergo processing that may strip the ingredients of their nutritional value, while also adding in other chemicals, flavors, coloring, sweeteners, and preservatives.
Juicing from raw vegetables and fruits ensures that you’ll get a nutrient dense drink that hydrates, detoxifies, improves digestion, increases energy, and even aids in weight loss. Rather than reaching for the nearest carton at your local grocery store, trying making your own grapefruit strawberry juicefrom scratch.
10. Chocolate
Chocolate is truly the Jekyll and Hyde of health foods. Raw cacao is rich in antioxidants, can help lower blood pressure, increases serotonin to boost your mood, and even helps curb cravings – but pump it up with sugar, flour, oils, and other ingredients that turn your cocoa into decadent sugar bombs, and you completely undo the healthy power of this beloved super food.
If you can, try to get your hands on some raw cacao nibs, which are the parts of the cacao bean that are roasted and processed into cocoa. If you’re a total chocoholic, consider trying this chocolate bar recipe made with raw cacao.
How many foods on this list are you already eating raw? Don’t forget to check out the suggested recipes for ideas to get started if you haven’t already. And remember – whether raw or cooked, choosing any of the foods on this list over processed junk will always be better for you, no matter what.
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